RESTRICTED  
  
WT/TPR/G/42 8 
15 June 2022 
(22-4643) Page: 1/32 
Trade Policy Review Body   Original: English  
 
TRADE POLICY REVIEW  
REPORT BY  
REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVA  
Pursuant to the Agreement Establishing the Trade Policy Review Mechanism (Annex 3 of the 
Marrakesh Agreement Establishing the World Trade Organization), the policy statement by the 
Republic of Moldova  is attached.  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note: This report is subject to restricted circulation and press embargo until the end of the first 
session of the meeting of the Trade Policy Review Body on the Republic of Moldova . WT/TPR/G/42 8 • Republic of Moldova  
 
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  Contents  
1   INTRODUCTION  ................................ ................................ ................................ .........  3 
2   OVERVIEW OF RECENT ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENTS AND REFORMS  ...........................  4 
2.1   Macroeconomic Overview  ................................ ................................ ............................  4 
2.2   External Environment and Competitiveness  ................................ ................................ ... 7 
2.2.1    Industrialization ................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 10 
2.2.2    The impact of war in Ukraine on National Economy  ................................ ....................  12 
2.3   Economic Developments and Reforms  ................................ ................................ .........  12 
2.3.1    MSMEs and regulatory, tax and administrative reforms ................................ ...............  12 
2.3.1.1    Women entrepreneurship a nd trade  ................................ ................................ ...... 16 
2.3.2    ICT development  ................................ ................................ ................................ ... 17 
2.3.3    Trade facilitation and customs developments  ................................ ............................  19 
2.3.4    GPA developments  ................................ ................................ ................................ . 20 
2.3.5    IP rights  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...............  22 
2.3.6    Agriculture  ................................ ................................ ................................ ............  23 
3   TRADE POLICY AND PREFERENTIAL TRADE REGIMES  ................................ ..............  25 
3.1   Overview  ................................ ................................ ................................ .................  25 
3.2   WTO and JSIs  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..........  25 
3.3   Preferential Trade Regimes  ................................ ................................ ........................  26 
3.3.1    DCFTA with European  Union  ................................ ................................ ....................  27 
3.3.2    Ongoing FTA negotiations  ................................ ................................ .......................  28 
4   CONCLUSIONS ................................ ................................ ................................ ..........  28 
ANNEXE TABLE  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..............  30 
 
 
  WT/TPR/G/42 8 • Republic of Moldova  
 
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  1  INTRODUCTION  
1.1.  The Republic  of Moldova submi ts this general policy statement as part of its second Trade Policy 
Review.  
1.2.  Trade liberalization and openness continues to represent one of the key objectives of the 
Republic of Moldova 's trade and economic policy agenda. In the reporting period the Republic of 
Moldova undertook a series of reforms and initiatives targeted to streamline, facilitate, and simplify 
trade procedures and regulations and of the improvement of business climate through the regulatory 
and administrative reforms.  
1.3.  As a result of  reforms carried out by the Government of the Republic of Moldova, today Moldova 
pursues  one of the most liberal foreign trade policies and a very favourable investment regime 
among WTO Members, which implies facilitated foreign trade regime and customs pr ocedures, 
duty-free or low import tariffs and minimum non -tariff measures in TBT and SPS domains, as well 
as a favourable tax regime.  
1.4.  Lacking natural resources, landlocked in Central Eastern Europe, Moldova 's development 
depends on competitive goods and bu sinesses that would succeed in international trade through 
high value -added goods and services.  
1.5.  Since the last Trade Policy Review in 2015, the Moldovan economy has continued to perform 
well, despite difficult circumstances related to bank crisis, energy security crisis, climate challenges 
related to droughts, COVID pandemic and war. Since 2020, the international economic environment 
has been characterized by a severe global economic and health crisis, triggered by the emergence 
of the  COVID -19 pandemic. T his has been followed by a strong economic recovery, albeit one that 
has been uneven across countries. At the end of 2021, a new wave of COVID -19, combined with 
global bottlenecks in the supply of raw materials and intermediate goods and a sharp increase i n 
inflation created a challenging environment for the Republic of Moldova economy.  
1.6.  The Republic of Moldova 's economy and trade proved to be relatively resilient during the 
COVID -19 crisis. Its performance is due to a number of factors: a diversified econom ic structure and 
exported products (for. example: in 2019 Moldova exported to its top five major markets more than 
100 agricultural products at HS 6 digit level, with the European  Union  (EU) being the most diversified 
market with a number of 54 products wo rth USD 663 million, in the same time Moldova exported 
over 514 industrial products at HS 6 digit level, exporting to E U around 190 types of products 
amounting a value of USD 880 million) a high degree of international openness, a high -quality 
education sy stem, a flexible labour market, a moderate tax burden, sound public finances, 
well-established cooperation between donors and partners.  
1.7.  The Republic of Moldova is a genuine and strong supporter of the MTS within WTO, considering 
among the priorities the ma intenance of the integrity and further strengthening the role and 
relevance of the WTO, which are essential for trade growth, further global economic development, 
and growth, and thereby contributing to the economic recovery from the  COVID -19 pandemic. The  
rules-based multilateral trading system developed within the framework of the WTO provides the 
institutional bases and regulatory framework for predictable, non -discriminatory global trade and is 
an essential against protectionism.  
1.8.  The Republic of Moldov a's trade policy priority on multilateral, non -discriminatory rules is 
complemented by a goal of continuous expansion of its export markets and deepening of trade 
relations through bilateral free trade agreements, particularly with the European  Union  (EU) and 
with other partners  worldwide. Moldova deems FTAs as a complementary platform for the MTS with 
WTO.  
1.9.  As other like minded  countries, Moldova attaches great importance to promoting further 
integration of its small lower -middle -income economy into the glo bal one, and to the need to make 
economic development more sustainable and inclusive. The Government also takes seriously 
concerns about the negative impact of climate change and structural changes in the economy. In 
this context, Moldova strongly supports  the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable 
Development and measures that promote socially and environmentally sustainable economic 
growth.  WT/TPR/G/42 8 • Republic of Moldova  
 
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  1.10.   The reforms implemented during the last years have contributed to the creation of competitive 
market conditions and a business enabling environment. Additionally, these reforms have diversified 
international trade and Moldova 's trade and economic ties, thus generating growth and development. 
By undertaking numerous economic reform initiatives and ensuring a strong l egal system to protect 
investor rights, Moldova has positioned itself as an attractive destination for foreign direct 
investment. The government's priorities are now focused on further improving investment climate 
and strengthening investor confidence to a ttract more foreign investment and boost economic 
growth .  
1.11.   Although the National Development Strategy "Moldova 2020 " was the main strategic 
economic policy document, the EU -Moldova Association Agreement (AA), the Deep and 
Comprehensive Free Trade Area (DCF TA) established in 2014, and the IMF programme that followed 
the banking crisis in 2015 have been crucial in shaping policy developments in Moldova, stimulating 
the speed and depth of economic and financial policy reforms.  
1.12.   Moldova has recently developed a  new National Development Strategy, "Moldova 2030 ", 
which is aligned with both its EU AA DCFTA and the United Nations ' 2030 Agenda for Sustainable 
Development. This document will contribute to the strategic allocation of budgetary resources, 
according to t he objectives set for its four basic pillars: (1)  Sustainable and inclusive economy, 
(2) Strong human and social capital, (3)  Fair and efficient institutions, and (4)  Healthy environment. 
Although the Strategy does not have specific targets for SME develop ment, many of the priority 
actions highlighted in the document aim to support entrepreneurship.  
1.13.   During the review period , Moldova has developed a well -structured institutional and 
regulatory framework containing all the main building blocks of a proactive  SME policy.  
1.14.   The country's economic policy continues to focus on free market principles, with the private 
sector as the main driving force behind the economy. At the same time, the economic policy is 
channelled toward s maintaining macroeconomic stability, especially in the post -pandemic period, 
also toward s further developing the business and investment environment, to support the recovery 
and subsequent expansion of pandemic -affected businesses.  
2  OVERVIEW OF RECENT ECON OMIC DEVELOPMENTS AND REFORMS  
Macroeconomic  Overview  
2.1.  Economic snapshot and reform priorities in Moldova has recovered remarkably quickly from 
the slowdown caused by the banking crisis and an unfavourable international environment, which 
resulted in a cont raction in 2015. This reflects improvements in both external economic conditions 
and domestic fundamentals. Broad -based reforms under the 2016 IMF -supported program 
successfully restored macro -financial stability and strengthened the financial sector.  
2.2.  After an average growth above 4 % in 2016 –19, economic activity contracted by 7 .5% in 2020, 
held back by temporary restrictions, disruption of supply chains, and reduced global demand, as well 
as the impact of a severe drought.  
2.3.  In 2018, unemployment and in flation rates reached their lowest levels since 2010 (3.4% and 
3.1%, respectively) and, together with lower interest rates on new loans, contributed to a modest 
increase in investment and domestic demand.  
2.4.  The Moldovan economy grew by an estimated 4.2% in 2019. Growth was primarily driven by 
investments which increased by around 16%. Amidst buoyant investment activity, the construction 
sector showed the highest growth rate among the main sectors of the economy, increasing by 
19% in 2019. In recent years, th e economy has been driven also by consumption and fuelled by 
remittances. The latter have accounted for up to a quarter of G ross domestic product (GDP) , among 
the highest share in the world. External trade increased only slightly in 2019, following dynamic  
growth in the previous years. In 2019, exports reached 2.8 billion US dollars, an increase of 2.7% 
compared to 2018, and imports amounted 5.8 billion US dollars, an increase of 1.4%. The negative 
trade balance amounted 3,062.6  million US dollars, compared  to 3,053.9 million dollars in 2018. 
The considerable difference in the evolution of exports and imports led to an accumulation in 2019 
of a trade deficit  amounting to 3.1  billion US dollars, an increase of 0.3%, compared to 2018. WT/TPR/G/42 8 • Republic of Moldova  
 
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  According to the National  Bank of Moldova, in 2019, the current account of the balance of payments 
recorded a deficit of US D 1,159.30  million, the capital account registered a negative balance 
amounting to US D 52.08  million, and the financial account recorded a net capital inflow of 
USD 1,205.94 million. Inflation increased to a relatively high 7.5% at the end of 2019. The budget 
deficit amounted to only around 1.5% of G DP. The economic situation remained stable, despite 
having three different governments in 2019, including three m onths of coalition negotiations. Ageing 
population and large emigration flows are eroding already low labour participation. Boosting skills is 
another challenge to sustainable growth, job creation and poverty reduction.  
2.5.  Starting with 2020, the COVID ‑19 pandemic has severely impacted the Moldovan economy. 
After the deepest downturn in 2020, the economy is rebounding, but significant risks beset the 
outlook. In 2021 the economic recovery is taking strong root. However, adverse risks to the outlook 
remain sign ificant, including from new infection outbreaks and virus variants, slower -than-expected 
recovery in trading partners, soaring energy prices, or reform fatigue and the impact of the war from 
the neighbouring country over Moldova 's economy.  
2.6.  While the Govern ment remains committed to progressively shift its policy focus towards 
mitigating the pandemic 's long -term damage to countries economy and securing a sustainable, 
inclusive, and more robust recovery, the unfolding energy crisis which became more intense fo r 
2021-2022 years, the long standing  weaknesses of domestic institutions could impede the reform 
momentum, all of these being amplified by the crisis due to Russian war started against Ukraine.  
2.7.  In 2021, the Republic of Moldova registered the highest econom ic growth in the last three 
decades. G DP amounted to 241.9 billion lei and registered a real increase of 13.9% compared to 
2020. The main factors that contributed to this growth are related to the favourable crop year and 
thus important contribution was ge nerated by the agricultural sector, the acceleration of the growth 
of private consumption and the revival of economic activity.  
2.8.  The largest sectors by share of GDP are trade (14 .9%), agriculture (10 .4%), industry (9 .8%), 
construction (8 .2%), real estate transactions (7.03%), information and communication (5 .5%), 
transport (4 .2%), public administration (3 .6%). 
2.9.  The following activities mainly contributed to the 13.9% increase in GDP in 2021 compared to 
2020:  
• Agriculture, forestry and fishing (+ 4.2%)  with a share of 10.4% in GDP;  
• Wholesale and retail trade; maintenance and repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles 
(+ 2.2%), with a share of 14.9% in the formation of GDP;  
• Transport and storage (+  1.6%) with a share of 4.2% in GDP;  
• Information and commun ications (+  1.2%), with a share of 5.5% in GDP;  
• Production and supply of electricity and heat, gas, hot water and air conditioning (+ 0.9%) 
with a share of 2.1% in GDP;  
• Art, recreation and leisure activities (+  0.5%) with a share of 1.0% in GDP.  
2.10.   The industrial sector  rebounded after the pandemic crisis of 2020. In 2021 the volume of 
industrial production increased by 12.1% due to the relaunch of the manufacturing industry 
(+ 11.4%), of the extractive industry (+  11.9%), as well as of the increase of the p roduction in the 
energy sector (+  16.1%).  
2.11.   After a year of severe drought, 2021 has been a particularly good year for agriculture . 
Global agricultural production grew by almost 50% (a record grow). The increase in global 
agricultural production was determin ed by the significant increase in vegetable production (by about 
75.5%).  WT/TPR/G/42 8 • Republic of Moldova  
 
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  2.12.   The transport sector  has been growing in 2021, following the decline generated by the 
pandemic crisis. In 2021, freight transport increased by about 19.2%, and passenger transport by 
about 9.5%.  
2.13.   In 2021, the retail trade in goods  increased by 12%, and the trade in services  provided to 
the population – increased 1.7 times (in comparable prices).  
2.14.   Tourism  continues to be affected by the consequences of the COVID ‑19 pandemic, but its 
intensity is declining. In 2021, the collective tourist reception structures with accommodation 
functions were attended by 178 ,000.2 tourists or two times more than in 2020 (deeply affected by 
the consequences of the COVID pandemic).  
2.15.   On the background of the de clines in the crisis period of 2020, investment activity increased 
moderately in 2021. The volume of investments in fixed assets increased by 4.8%, amounting to 
about MDL 29.6 billion. Increasing the own investments of the economic agents oriented in new 
technologies, machines and equipment, as well as the increase of the investments in the public 
infrastructure financed from external sources were the basic factors that influenced the increase of 
the investments.  
2.16.   The annual inflation rate exceeded the upper  limit of the range of variation of the inflation 
target set by the National Bank of Moldova (5% +/ - 1.5%), constituting 13.9% (December 2021 
compared to December 2020). In response to the rising inflationary pressure, the NBM on 
03/12/2021  increased the b ase rate by one percentage point (p.p.) - up to 6.5%.  
2.17.   In January -December 2021, the Moldovan leu  depreciated by 3.1% related to the US dollar 
in nominal terms but appreciated in relation to euro. by 4.9%.  
2.18.   Budget revenues remain on a positive trend, with an increase of 32.4% in December 2021. 
Cumulatively in January -December, the national public budget received revenues of about 
77.4 billion. lei, which represents an increase of 23.5% compared to the same period of 2020. The 
positive result is largely due to the relaunch of domestic consumption, which favoured the increase 
of revenues from taxes and duties on goods and services, and the increase of salary income.  
2.19.   International trade in goods  is continuously increasing. The favourable external 
environment an d the increase in demand for goods in the main partner countries led to an increase 
in exports by 27.5% in 2021, amounting to 3 ,144.5 million US dollars. At the same time, domestic 
demand, which is maintaining a positive trend, as well as the increase in w orld prices for energy 
resources, especially natural gas, led to an increase in the value of imports by 32.5%, amounting to 
7,176.6 million US dollars. The volume of imports exceeded about 2.3 times the volume of exports 
and, thus, the negative balance of the trade balance increased by about 1.4 times, highlighting the 
dependence of the economy on external sources.  
2.20.   The recovery of the economy after the pandemic crisis, the increase in world prices for raw 
materials and energy resources, as well as the disru ption of value chains were reflected in the 
external balance of payments  indicators for 2021. The increase in domestic demand and prices 
for energy resources led to an increase of 33 .6% of imports of goods and services. As a result, the 
current account def icit widened by about 1.8 times. As a result, the country's external financing 
needs relative to GDP have increased to 12%, compared to 8.3% in 2020.  
2.21.   Uncertain prospects for the future continue to influence investment activity. Although foreign 
direct investment inflows increased by about 1.6 times compared to 2020, they did not reach 
pre-crisis levels. Under these conditions, the current account deficit was largely financed by loans, 
trade credits and advances.  
2.22.   The unemployment rate (the share o f ILO unemployed in the labour force) at the country 
level in 2021 registered the value of 3.2%, being lower by 0.6 pp. compared to 2020 (3.6%).  
2.23.   At the beginning of 2022 the economy was experiencing a recovery, but the outlook is clouded 
by significant vul nerabilities linked to energy crisis and the war in the neighbouring country. A robust 
rebound in 2021 growth (13 .9%) was driven by aggregate demand supported by high credit and 
wage growth as well as strong remittance inflows. Remittances from the approxi mately one million WT/TPR/G/42 8 • Republic of Moldova  
 
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  Moldovans who work abroad account for almost 15% of GDP. While favourable high -frequency 
indicators point to continued recovery, the domestic impact of global turbulence in energy markets 
and a new infection wave due to Delta variant pos e significant headwinds and heighten uncertainty. 
Thus, during the first 4 months of 2022 the inflation rates picked up at its highest rates (in March 
2022 the rate of inflation reached the highest pick of 22.16%), driven by high energy prices and 
increase  of princes of the consumption basket (around 50% of the inflation rate is driven by food 
and energy prices).  
2.24.   Downside risks remain significant amid heightened uncertainty. These include a more severe 
or protracted fallout from the global energy crisis, a slower recovery both domestically and abroad, 
and scarring of balance sheets from renewed unemployment and the  impact of war from Ukraine.  
2.25.   Moldova remains susceptible to spill overs from geopolitical tensions. Political changes 
continue resulting in a significant bleeding of the operational expertise from key governmental 
bodies, further degrading Moldova 's refor ms implementation capacity. On the upside, the recent 
arrangements with the IMF and supporting donors aimed at addressing vulnerabilities cataly zed 
external financing, while reforms could yield large medium -term growth dividends.  
External Environment  and C ompetitiveness  
2.26.   As a small -sized economy with very scarce natural resources, Moldova is highly dependent on 
foreign trade, either imports of raw materials and intermediate goods or exports of value -added 
goods and raw materials. In this context, the Moldova n economy has been successful at export 
diversification in terms of products and destinations. However, Moldovan exports of goods and 
services still lack domestic value creation.  
2.27.   For a small, vulnerable, land -locked country in Central Eastern Europe, the Republic of 
Moldova remains more susceptible than other, larger economies to changing circumstances in the 
external environment. Moldova borders Romania and Ukraine by land - the main transit countries 
being Romania, Ukraine, and Belarus.  
2.28.   An important dete rminant for the Moldovan economy represents the economic performance 
of the European  Union : 43 .9% of Moldovan imports of goods are from the EU 
(2021:  USD 3.1 billion), while around  two thirds 62% of Moldovan exports (2021: USD 1.9 billion) 
go to the EU, ma king it by far Moldova 's most important trading partner (with Romania, Germany, 
Italy, Poland leading among the top trading EU partners).  
2.29.   Other major trading partners are the T ürkiye, China, C ommonwealth of Independent States 
(CIS)  countries (particularly Ukraine, Belarus, the Russian  Federation ), Switzerland followed by 
other countries in Asia, the Americas and the Middle East.  
2.30.   In terms of Moldova 's foreign trade, the past few years have been characterized by increased 
specializati on towards certain high value -added products, especially those produced by the 
automotive and pharmaceutical industries, but also by the winemaking, textiles and machinery 
industries.  
2.31.   Top exported products by the Republic of Moldova: Insulated Wire ( USD 445 million ), 
Sunflower Seeds ( USD 188 million ), Wine ( USD 134 million ), Seats ( USD 112 million ), and 
Hot-Rolled Iron Bars ( USD 105 million ), Edible fruits and vegetables, etc.  
2.32.   Top imported products by the Republic of Moldova: Refined Petroleum ( USD 328 million), 
Packaged Medicaments ( USD 226 million ), Cars ( USD 224 million ), Broadcasting Equipment 
(USD 165 million ), and Insulated Wire ( USD 140 million ), textile, etc.  
Economic complexity in 2020  
2.33.   Most Specialized Products by RCA Index – Moldova has a high lev el of specialization in 
Sunflower Seeds (218), Hot -Rolled Iron Bars (53.6), Apples, Pears and Grapes (43.5), Seed Oils 
(42.3), and Other Vegetable Residues (32), Gypsum, Pitted and Dried Fruits, Alcohol exceeding 
80%. Specialization is measured using RCA, an index that takes the ratio between Moldova observed 
and expected exports in each product.  WT/TPR/G/42 8 • Republic of Moldova  
 
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  2.34.   Most Complex Products by PCI – The highest complexity exports of Moldova according to the 
product complexity index (PCI) are Machines for testing mechanical proper ties of material (1.54), 
Copper foil, thickness (except any backing) < 0.15  mm (1.37), Machinery, non -domestic, involving 
heating or cooling (1.16), Derivatives of cyclic alcohols (0.89), and Articles of iron or steel (0.87), 
Heating boilers, Signals for A utomotive Industry, Electric transformers, Nickel tubes, Machinery for 
leather work including for footwear. PCI measures the knowledge intensity of a product by 
considering the knowledge intensity of its exporters.  
2.35.   Export Opportunities by Relatedness – The top export opportunities for Moldova according to 
the relatedness index, are Knit Men's Undergarments (0.22), Non -Knit Men's Undergarments (0.21), 
Raw Tobacco (0.21), Locust beans, seaweed, sugar beet, cane, for food (0.21), and Other Vegetables 
(0.21), P erfume plants, knitting accessories including for babies.  Relatedness measures the distance 
between a country's current exports and each product.  
2.36.   During the years 2015 -2020, the IT industry recorded an increase in annual sales revenues 
from 2.1 billion lei to 7.4 billion lei, reaching 3.6% of GDP. The volume of exports of IT products and 
services exceeded in 2020 the figure of 4.6 billion lei, qualitatively changing the structure of exports 
of the Republic of Moldova.  
2.37.   This positive development in  the IT sector is accompanied by the increase in the number of 
companies during this period – from 1 ,000 to 1,700, and the number of employees – from 9 ,350 to 
17,000 people, ensuring the best level of pay in the economy.  
2.38.   The volume of investments in comput er services, according to the analyzed data, doubled in 
the reference period and reached 2.6 billion lei in 2020, increasing by approx. 800 m illion lei 
compared to the previous year , which speaks of the fact that more and more investment is being 
made in s treamlining processes and digital innovation in various economic sectors.  
2.39.   The export volume of the IT industry in the Republic of Moldova in 2021, according to the 
National Bank of Moldova, reached 349.82 million US dollars, more than five times higher com pared 
to the indicator in 2016.  
2.40.   The results are due to the favourable  policies for the development of the sector, especially 
the distinct fiscal regime in which the 1,055 active residents of the virtual park "Moldova IT park " 
operate, out of which 182 comp anies with foreign capital from 39 countries.  
2.41.   Despite the constraints imposed by the pandemic and the regional development context, the 
turnover achieved by the residents of "Moldova IT park" in 2021 exceeded by 49% the income for 
2020 and amounted to over  6.8 billion lei.  
2.42.   85% of total IT services exports are generated by "Moldova IT park" residents. The main IT 
export markets are EU countries, UK, USA, Canada.  
2.43.   Exports of services, in 2021, increased by 19.7%, in general, due to the increase in 
telecommunic ations, IT and information services (+31.6%), travel services (+32.2%) and transport 
services (+32.2%).  
2.44.   The import of services increased by 30.4%. Within them, the imports of travel services 
(+34.4%), transport (+38.5%) increased. At the same time, constru ction services decreased 
(- 12.6%).  
2.45.   For comparison, in 2018 the balance of services recorded a positive balance of 
USD 373.3  million, compared to USD 317 million in 2017. Exports of services increased by 18% and 
imports – by 18.1%. This situation was gene rally due to the more intense increase in imports of 
transport services (by 16.3% compared to 6% for exported services). At the same time, it is 
important to mention the essential increase in the export of telecommunications, IT and information 
services – by 25.6% compared to 2017.  
2.46.   Since 2020, the international economic environment has been characterized by a severe 
global economic crisis, triggered by the emergence of the COVID -19 pandemic in early 2020, which 
has hit world trade and the economies of Moldo vans's main trading partners hard. To combat the WT/TPR/G/42 8 • Republic of Moldova  
 
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  spread of the virus, governments shut down entire sectors of the economy, leading to a collapse in 
demand and trade. At the same time, different governments introduced massive public aid 
programmes to support the affected sectors and the economy as a whole . Subsequently, further 
waves of the coronavirus occurred, triggering similar responses, particularly in Europe, although on 
a smaller scale than in the spring of 2020.  
2.47.   At the same time, it is worth mentioning that the Republic of Moldova recognizes indust ry and 
competitiveness as strategic development priorities and, in this context, they are always included in 
national policy agendas. Also, in the process of adapting the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable 
Development to the national context, the Republic of Mold ova has included nine indicators defined 
for SDG9 – Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, implicitly the indicators for measuring industry's 
share of employment and gross domestic product. Alongside sectoral strategic planning related to 
industrial poli cy, a process in which the Moldovan Government is involved, infrastructure and 
industrial platforms are being further developed. Thus, the Pilot program for creating multifunctional 
industrial platforms, adopted by Government Decision No.  748/2020, is bein g implemented, a 
document that foresees the creation of 18 Multifunctional Industrial Platforms.  
2.48.   In addition, in the context of signing the AA DCFTA with EU, the Government approved The 
Roadmap on Improving the Competitiveness of the Republic of Moldova by the Government Decision 
No. 4/2014. The goal of the Roadmap was to improve competitiveness of the Moldovan economy, 
to increase benefits generated by DCFTA and, at the same time, to cope with challenges associated 
with the implementation of DCFT A. The Roadmap contained a policy matrix that provided concrete 
actions on nine components:  
• Human resources;  
• Access to finance;  
• Transport and energy infrastructure;  
• Quality infrastructure;  
• Information society;  
• Trade facilitation;  
• Fiscal policy and administ ration;  
• Scientific research and innovation  
• Competition.  
2.49.   As of 2020, most of the actions included in the policy matrix of the Roadmap were carried out 
(an implementation rate of 95.5%). However, despite the achievement of performance indicators, 
additional substantial effort is needed to increase the country 's competitiveness.  
2.50.   To enable investment in the Moldovan economy and to ensure an efficient promotion of 
exports of domestic goods and services, the Moldovan Government approved the National Strategy 
for Investment Attraction and Export Promotion for 2016 -2020 and associated implementation 
Action Plan, a strategic document reflecting the country's vision in this area. As stated in the strategy 
"an accelerated and sustainable growth of the national income i s only possible through the increase 
and diversification of exports. However, the technological gap represents a major structural 
shortcoming, which undermines the competitiveness of Moldovan exports. In order to reduce it and 
cataly ze the export -oriented growth model, major investments are needed in the development of 
productive capital ". The Strategy identified seven priority sectors for investment and export 
promotion: agriculture and food, automotive industry, business services such as business process 
outsourcing (BPO), clothing and footwear, electronics, information and communication technologies 
(ICT), and machinery.  
2.51.   The sectoral strategic plans, which are in the process of elaboration, are correlated with the 
international commitments of the Republic  of Moldova. The draft national development strategy and WT/TPR/G/42 8 • Republic of Moldova  
 
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  other draft sectoral strategic documents are based on two horizontal priorities - Green and 
Digital  - and a number of thematic priorities, including: the development of small -scale 
manufacturing at l ocal level; the development of high  growth innovative enterprises at national level 
and the attraction of FDI in the industrial sector in the context of nearshoring. The priorities and 
their associated multi -sectoral activities will be implemented includin g through the development of 
existing Investment Platforms - Free Economic Zones, Industrial Parks, Multifunctional Industrial 
Platforms, the IT Park.  
2.2.1   Industriali zation  
2.52.   The economy of the Republic of Moldova has experienced, in three decades of transition,  the 
phenomenon of premature deindustrialization. As a result, between 1991 and 2021 the share of 
industry in GDP fell from 40% to 12 %. Thus, the share of the industrial sector in GDP was 
varying between 14% - 15% in the period of 2011 -2015 then went down to 12% in 2021 . The 
development of the industrial sector was disrupted by various crises: „transition shock " and financial 
crises from 1998; the Russian  Federation 's periodic embargoes; droughts (2012, 2020), local 
financial -banking crisis (2015 -2016), pan demic crisis (2020 -2021).  
2.53.   Despite these challenges, during 2011 -2021 the industrial production recorded an average 
annual growth of 4%. The domestic and external demand, contribute to the increase of industry. 
Also, the policies related to development of t he Free Economic Zones (FEZ) contributed to the growth 
of industry.  
2.54.   Based on the existing legal framework, seven  free economic zones (FEZ "Balti", FEZ 
"Ungheni -Business", FEZ "Export -Business -Chisinau", FEZ "Valkanes", FEZ "Tvardița", FEZ 
"Taraclia", FEZ " Otaci-Business") have been created and are operating, with 38 sub -zones located 
throughout the country on a total area of about 440  ha. According to the situation as of 31/12/2021 , 
229 residents were registered in the 7 FEZs, with a number of employees of 15,830 persons and a 
gross average monthly salary of USD 471.2 (approximative EUR  450).  
2.55.   The total value of investments made in the free economic zones during the entire period of 
activity until 31/12/2021  amounted to USD  506.2  million. The total income from sales of industrial 
production by free zones amounted to USD  672.9  million in 2021, of which USD  612.4  million was 
export revenue.  
2.56.   The industry of Moldova mainly consists of sec tors that require resources and labour, which 
result in production of goods with low value -added. This is confirmed by the structure of the industrial 
production, according to which 47% are non -durable goods (for current use), 26% - intermediate 
goods and only 9% and 3% - capital goods and durable goods. Nevertheless, some positive structural 
changes have been observed recently: in 2014 -2020 the share of capital goods and durable goods 
increased by 3.5 pp and 0.7 pp, respectively, due to the intensive growt h of some specific branches, 
such as automotive and furniture industries.  
2.57.   The manufacturing industry is the most important branch, with a share of 84% in the total 
industrial production. The energy sector, along with water distribution and sanitation activ ities, 
account for about 14%, while the extractive industry accounts for less than 2%. The most important 
branches within the manufacturing industry are: the food industry (33%), the automotive industry 
(12%), the light industry (11%), the manufacturing of  non-metallic mineral products (11%), 
beverages (10%), chemicals and plastic articles (5% for each of them), furniture production (4%).  
2.58.   The manufacturing industry has strengthened its position, registering an average annual 
growth of about 4% during 2011 -2021. Some branches have developed more intensively. The 
expansion of the FEZ 's activity, particularly the investments in the automotive industry, triggered 
the annual growth of machine and equipment manufacturing of over 20% during 2011 -2021. The 
other bra nches that have made significant progress are the furniture industry (average growth 
+13%), the wood industry (+11%), the chemical industry (+8%), and the paper products industry 
(+8%). However, the industrial sector was severely affected by the pandemic c risis:  the weak 
external demand negatively influenced, particularly the exporting industries, including those 
provided by the residents of the FEZ. In addition, the extremely unfavourable weather 
conditions in 2020 led to a considerable decline in the agri cultural sector ( -27.2%), 
impacting the food industry by -5.8%.  WT/TPR/G/42 8 • Republic of Moldova  
 
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  2.59.   In 2021, the industrial sector rebounded after the pandemic crisis, registering 12.1% growth, 
due to the recovery of the manufacturing industry (+11.4%), the extractive industry (+11.9%), and 
of the energy sector (+16.1%). However, some exporting sectors continue to decline: manufacture 
of machinery and equipment ( -22.8%), production of vegetable oils ( -24.4%), chemical industry 
(- 11.2%).  
2.60.   The entrepreneurs from the industrial sector are mostly  oriented to the domestic market. 
Thus, about 65% of the industrial production is delivered on the domestic market and about 35% - 
on foreign markets. In recent years, the share of industrial exports has increased (by 3.6 pp in the 
period 2014 -2020). The e xporting sectors had the greatest impact on the industrial sector growth. 
The main exporting sectors are: manufacture machinery and equipment, light industry, processing 
of fruits and vegetables, manufacture of glass, beverages. In these sectors over 50% o f production 
is oriented to export. However, the industrial export is represented mainly by products with low 
value -added, like assembled cables or textile, and Moldova has a modest position in international 
value chains.  
2.61.  At the same time, many industries currently produce mainly for domestic use (over 90% of 
their production). These include meat production and processing, dairy production, manufacturing 
of tobacco products, non -metallic mineral products, and metal constructions.  
2.62.   The share of industrial goo ds in the total exports is decreasing, while the share of unprocessed 
agricultural goods is growing. In 2021 the share of industrial goods in the total exports was about 
72%. During 2014 -2021 the volume of exported industrial goods increased by 2.9% annual ly. But 
this increase was not enough to strengthen the position of industrial products in the structure of 
exports, because the exports of unprocessed agricultural products recorded an average increase of 
8.6% during this period. The more intensive growth of exports with low value -added reduces 
the competitiveness of the national economy and does not ensure qualitative economic 
growth.  
2.63.   The European  Union  is the main market for industrial exports. About 69% of the total exported 
industrial goods are delivere d to EU countries, 14% - to the C IS countries and 17% - to the other 
countries. After signing of the Association Agreement and the DCFTA with the European  Union , the 
EU's share in the industrial exports increased steadily (from 56% in 2014 to 69% in 2021).  
2.64.   The Republic of Moldova does not have a policy document in force directly dedicated 
to industry,  but the Government of the Republic of Moldova is engaged in developing the strategic 
planning framework for the next decade, including relevant sectoral strategies and programs. Thus, 
the Government's Action Plan for 2021 -2022, approved by Government Deci sion No.  235/2021, 
provides for the approval of the Strategy for an Inclusive, Sustainable and Digital Economy by 2030, 
as well as the development of programs under the strategy. One of the programs subordinated to 
the strategy will be The Industrial Devel opment Program, defining the development of a competitive, 
resilient, digitalized and sustainable industrial sector, focused on thematic interventions in high 
value -added sectors, including electronics, creative industry, automotive industry, biopharma etc . 
2.65.   The last policy document dedicated to industry was the Strategy for the development of 
industry until 2015, adopted by Government Decision No.  1149/2006. After 2015, some sectoral 
strategies tangentially related to the development of the industry were im plemented, including the 
National Strategy of Investment Attraction and Export Promotion for 2016 -2020, adopted by 
Government Decision No.  511/2016. In this Strategy several priority industrial sectors were 
identified: automotive, food industry, textile in dustry. At the same time, there were several policy 
documents dedicated to different sectors: energy, transport and education that were related to the 
development of the industrial sector.  
2.66.   The National Program for Promoting Entrepreneurship and Increasing 
Competitiveness for 2022 -2026  and, in particular, the Industrial Development Program, once 
finalized and adopted, will succeed previous sectoral documents and contribute to the transition to 
the 4th Industrial Revolution (4IR) in the Republic of Moldova.  WT/TPR/G/42 8 • Republic of Moldova  
 
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  2.2.2   The impact of war in Ukraine  on National Economy  
2.67.   Starting with 24  February, Moldova declared national state of emergency until 25 April 2022 
and given the major risks the Government decided to prolong the emergency state additionally with 
60 days.  
2.68.   Given its geographical proximity, Moldova is among the most affected countries in the region 
facing big challenges due to the war started by the Rus sian Federation  against Ukraine.  
2.69.   Moldova stands in solidarity and supports Ukraine. Moldova co -sponsored the statement 
promoted by a group of likeminded members in WTO condemning in strongest terms the war of the 
Russian  Federation  against Ukraine as well  as the WTO Joint Statement on Open and Predictable 
Trade in Agricultural and Food Products. Also, Moldova aligned to similar statements condemning 
the Russian  Federation 's aggression in many other international organizations and forums, including 
the deba ted declaration in UN.  
2.70.   Moldova also aligned and applied financial related measures against the Russian  Federation , 
namely sanctions on the financial system that have cut selected Russian banks from the Visa, 
MasterCard and SWIFT payment system – thereby ef fectively blocking financial import and export 
transactions – and hit banks with asset freezes or exclusion from foreign financial systems.  
2.71.   Shall be mentioned the big contribution of Moldova in the refugee crisis. The Government of 
Moldova has shown leader ship in responding to the protection needs of massive flow of refugees 
fleeing war in Ukraine. Currently, Moldova hosts around 100 ,000 Ukrainians which represents 4% 
of Moldova 's population. Half of these refugees are young people and children while the ot her half 
are elder women. This situation represents and additional enormous pression on our social systems 
specially in healthcare and education. While the Government continues to respond to meet the 
challenge, it is complemented and assisted by the effort s of partners that are coordinated by UNHCR 
under the refugee coordination forum. UN agencies and INGO/NGOs partners have stepped up their 
efforts to assist the response by  Moldova.  
Economic Developments  and Reforms  
2.72.   The COVID ‑19 pandemic, drought in 2020, and the ongoing surge in global energy prices, 
have slowed economic activity, intensified downside risks, and complicated policy making. While 
emergency financial assistance under IMF (a blended RCF/RFI (100 % of quota) and SDR a llocation 
(USD 236 million ) helped cushion the pandemic 's impact, Moldova remains among the most 
vulnerable countries in Europe with long -standing weaknesses inhibiting income convergence.  
2.73.   Over the past two years, the Republic of Moldova 's economy has evol ved in response to the 
coronavirus pandemic and associated containment measures. In the first half of 2020, economic 
activity collapsed in the wake of the first wave of COVID -19 and the accompanying restrictive 
measures, both in Moldova and abroad. This wa s followed by a strong economic recovery by the 
winter of  2021, when the recovery was severely hampered by a new outbreak of the COVID -19 
pandemic and the introduction of new containment measures.  
2.74.   By the summer of 2021, however, most of the restrictive he alth measures had been lifted or 
significantly relaxed. This led to a strong recovery in economic activity in the second and third 
quarters, driven mainly by private consumption and the recovery of the service sectors that had 
been affected by the health r estrictions. As a result, GDP exceeded its pre -crisis level in 2021.  
2.3.1   MSMEs and regulatory, tax and administrative reforms  
2.75.   The small and medium -sized enterprises (SMEs) sector continue to play a key role in the 
national economy. With a share of 98.6%  of the total number of enterprises in the economy, they 
generate over 60 % (60.1%) of the total jobs and almost 40 % (39.3%)  of the turnover  
obtained by enterprises. As a result, they contribute almost half (48%) to the formation of the 
Gross Domestic Product.  
2.76.   Since 2016, the Republic of Moldova has made moderate progress in further developing a 
conducive business environment for SMEs. Moldova has advanced in the implementation of WT/TPR/G/42 8 • Republic of Moldova  
 
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  the SME Development Strategy 2012 -2020 with substantial progress in the reduction of  
burdensome regulation, the implementation of regulatory impact analysis (RIA) and the 
provision of business development services for SMEs.  Noteworthy reforms also include 
reinforced policy framework for entrepreneurial learning, start -up support for young  
entrepreneurs, an expansion of the credit guarantee scheme, broadened e -government 
services, and a formali zed public -private dialogue platform.   
2.77.   These reforms have been reflected in the 2020 World Bank Doing Business report, which 
ranks Moldova 48th, up f rom 63rd in 2015. Moldova performs well in the starting a business and 
registering property indicators. According to the 2019 Global Competitiveness Index, Moldova ranks 
86th out of 141 countries, with the financial system, including the financing of SMEs,  (ranked 124th 
and 93rd respectively), remaining one of the most problematic issues despite a slight improvement 
compared to 2018. Despite major improvements in the operational environment for both domestic 
and foreign companies, important structural chall enges remain. For example, massive emigration 
and a rigid education system have led to shortages of skilled labour – one of the main obstacles to 
doing business reported by SMEs. In addition, interviews with members of the business community 
indicate their  perception that levels of corruption continue to be high.  
2.78.   In future, Moldova should focus on promoting a level playing field for all enterprises through 
effective competition policy and a transparent and independent judiciary. Considerable work remains 
to be done to promote entrepreneurial learning, including meeting the specific skills requirements 
of SMEs. The limited internationali zation  of Moldovan SMEs is a long -term challenge, and more 
emphasis could be placed on making better use of Moldova 's DCFTA with the EU. In addition, Moldova 
could further support the innovation activities of SMEs and their transition to the green 
economy.  
2.79.   Moldova has broadly aligned its SME policy with the guidelines set by the European  Union 's 
Small Business Act for Europe (SBA). The country 's SME definition, reviewed in 2016, follows on the 
EU definition.  
2.80.   The Ministry of Economy is in charge of SME policy and supervises the overall implementation 
of the strategy, while ODIMM, the national SME Development Agency, is responsible for the 
implementation of most of the planned actions on MSMEs. Most of the actions foreseen by the 
strategy have been implemented, and a report on action implementation is available.  
2.81.   Regulatory reform and the reduction of administrative burde ns have been a high 
priority  for the government. Moldova was one of the first countries to introduce the 
regulatory guillotine process (RIA)  and several rounds have taken place, starting from a strictly 
regulated business environment and having to deal wit h a complex, inefficient and often corrupted 
inspection system. Overall, those actions have produced a number of tangible results. According to 
the Law on Normative Acts (2017), the application of RIA for business related legislation 
should be mandatory , but the practice has not yet been uniformly applied across the public 
administration. The institution co -ordinating the RIA application is the State Chancellery, through an 
RIA secretariat, while the RIA methodology has been reviewed in 2016 and brought in line with EU 
standards.  
2.82.   Moldova has an established practice of mandatory consultations with the public and 
private enterprise sectors . According to the Law on Transparency in the Decision -Making Process 
(2008), public consultations are mandatory for each legislative and regulatory act that has a social, 
economic, or environmental impact. For this purpose, the government has established a 
central dedicated website (www.particip.gov.md),  the line ministries and most of the 
subordinated agencies of the public  administration use it to publish draft versions of their legal acts 
(according to the State Chancellery, 134 draft laws were posted on the website in 2017 out a total 
of 185 drafts laws recorded by the Chancellery). Meetings regularly take place between S ME policy 
institutions and private sector organi zations.  
2.83.   Operational environment for SMEs Moldova has made significant progress in a number of 
areas related to the operational environment for SMEs, such as company registration and 
licen sing.  WT/TPR/G/42 8 • Republic of Moldova  
 
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  2.84.   The domain o f e-government services is one of the areas where progress has been 
more notable . In 2016 the government adopted an Action Plan for the Reform and Moderni zation 
of Public Services covering the 2017 -2021 period. The action plan 's implementation is coordinat ed 
by the State Chancellery, which presents an annual report to the National Council for Public 
Administration Reform. Currently, the government provides a wide range of e -government 
services.  Access is granted through an e -signature system and taxes and f ees can be paid through 
the M -Pay public platform. The availability of internet connection through the country has 
significantly increased, more than 90% of Moldova's population has access to high -speed internet, 
Moldova is ranking among top countries with  best coverage of superfast internet in the world. 
However, the level of IT skills of entrepreneurs remains limited, which prevents the uptake of 
e-government services.  
2.85.   Also, company registration procedures have been significantly simplified  since 2016. 
According to the 2020 World Bank Doing Business report, it takes three procedures to start a 
business in Moldova; the entire process takes four days, and the cost is equal to 5% of the 
country 's per capita annual income. In the starting a business indicator , Moldova ranks 13th out of 
190 countries, up 13 positions since 2016. Company registration procedures are conducted in 
one-stop-shops managed by the Public Service Agency , which is present in 26 cities across 
the country. Company registration can be partl y completed online , but the notifications 
procedures (registration with the tax office, social insurance organi zations and the statistical office) 
have to be conducted in person.  
2.86.   Moldova has introduced a simplified tax regime for sole proprietors and small 
companies, complemented by low tax rates for microenterprises . Enterprises with a turnover 
below MDL  600,000 ( approximately  EUR 30,000) are subject to a presumptive tax regime and a tax 
rate equal to 1% of their turnover, but not less  than MDL  3,000 ( approximately  EUR 150). Cash 
accounting can be applied only to sole proprietors. SMEs with a turnover below 
MDL 1,200 000 (approximately  EUR 60,000) are subject to a tax equal to 4% of the operational 
income.  
2.87.   At the same time, the Republic  of Moldova provides fiscal stimulation in the country 's seven 
free economic zones and the IT sector, consisting primarily of tax exemptions for resident companies 
and their employees (any company, foreign or local, can register as a resident of the FEZ and IT 
parks). Specifically, the IT Park grants residents a 7 % single tax on revenue (but not less than the 
equivalent of EUR  150 per employee).  
2.88.   As of the Law No.  179/2016 on small and medium enterprises, any state control of small and 
medium -sized enterp rises, during the first three  years from their registration, should be of advisory 
nature, except the cases of criminal offences.  
2.89.   According to the Government's Action Plan, by the end of 2022, the approval of draft laws is 
expected, that will come with reg ulations for small and micro enterprises on simplified tax and 
reporting mechanisms, as well as simplifying labour relations and reporting on this dimension.  
2.90.   SMEs in the Republic of Moldova have been more affected by the impact of the 
pandemic compared to large enterprises . According to the NBS publication on National 
Accounts, in 2020 the contribution of SMEs to the formation of GDP decreased by 
2.9 percentage points to 48% . It should be noted that until the pandemic; SMEs have tended to 
lag behind in crea ting added value in the economy. For example, in 2017 the small and medium 
enterprise sector generated 52.1% of GDP.  
2.91.   The evaluation conducted in 2021 emphasizes the positive impact on the SME sector that was 
achieved in the period of the implementation of the SME Strategy 2012 -2020, primarily by improving 
the business environment and implementing diverse direct support programmes for SMEs. It also 
points to failures, especially in outreach to the larger population of SMEs and in substantially 
increasing acc ess to finance and international markets. The implementation of the strategy was 
further complicated by continued migrations and brain drain, weak governmental management 
structures, especially in the regions, and a large skills mismatch. The COVID ‑19 pandemic put further 
pressure on the economy and reversed some of the early achievements.  WT/TPR/G/42 8 • Republic of Moldova  
 
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  • The important reforms have been made, but progress needs to be maintained. The index 
highlights some areas where Moldova should focus in the future:  
• Promoting a level pla ying field for all enterprises through effective competition policy and 
a transparent and independent judiciary.  
• Promoting entrepreneurial learning, including meeting the specific skills requirements of 
SMEs.  
• Internationalization of Moldovan SMEs is a shor t and long -term challenge.  
• More emphasis on making better use of Moldova 's DCFTA with the EU and  
• Supporting the innovation activities of SMEs and their transition to the green economy.  
2.92.   In this regard, the National Program for Promoting Entrepreneurship, an d Increasing 
Competitiveness for 2022 -2026 is being developed and will replace the old policy 
document  – Small and Medium Enterprise Sector Development Strategy for 2012 -2020, which 
expired in 2020.  
2.93.   The Programme is planned to be approved by the Government  by September 2022. The 
strategic objective of the Programme is to drive national entrepreneurship from a demand and 
opportunity -based entrepreneurship to one that is based on innovation and smart specialization that 
operates in a holistic and conducive en trepreneurship ecosystem and leads to sustainable, balanced, 
and inclusive socio -economic development in the Republic of Moldova.  
2.94.   The objective is to be achieved through measures and actions in five areas defined as specific 
objectives:  
• Enable Business Env ironment for the Creation and Operation of SMEs.  
• Strengthen Entrepreneurial Culture and Capabilities.  
• Improve SMEs access to finance.  
• Improve competitiveness and access to markets.  
• Facilitate Technology Exchange and Innovation.  
2.95.   According to Law No.  179/20161 on small and medium enterprises, the implementation of the 
state policy on supporting the development of SMEs is carried out by the Organization for the 
Development of the Small and Medium Enterprises Sector (ODIMM), the organizational structure 
respo nsible for this field, as well as other authorities, public and private institutions in the field.  
2.96.   ODIMM currently manages a wide range of business support programs, most of which provide 
integrated training, funding and mentoring. The total budget allocat ed from public funds for 2022 is 
MDL 340 million. Among the most relevant Grant Component Funding Programs are:  
• "START for YOUTH: a sustainable business at home" Program;  
• "Women in Business" Program;  
• The Program for attracting remittances in the economy "P ARE 1 + 1";  
• SME Digitization Support Instrument;  
 
1Law No.  179/2016 on small and medium enterprises, available in Romanian at:   
https://www.legis.md/cautare/getResults?doc_id=131008&lang=ro .  
  WT/TPR/G/42 8 • Republic of Moldova  
 
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  • Small and medium -sized enterprise greening Program;  
• Business support Program with high potential for growth and internationalization.  
2.97.   Other two new SME support programs have been launched this year: the Digital Innovation 
and Technology Start -up Support Program and the Digital Transformation Program for Small and 
Medium -sized Enterprises, with a cumulative budget for 2022 of MDL 35 million. 
2.98.   Furthermore, it is planned to review also other Programs for supporting SMEs: Program 
"Women in Business "; Program "Start for Youth – a sustainable business at your home "; Credit 
Guarantee Fund; Program "Business support with high growth potential and internationalization "; 
Program "Greening Small and Medium Enterprises ", in order to improve the implementation 
conditions, but also their extension.  
2.99.   In 2022, the government is on course to approve six more new SME support programs, with 
a cumulative budget  of MDL  600 million under the short -term budgetary policy framework for 
2022-2024:  
• Refurbishment and Energy Efficiency Program;  
• Social enterprise support Program;  
• The "Second Chance " Program;  
• "Rural tourism start -up" Program;  
• Program to facilitate the grouping of SMEs in Clusters;  
• Fund for the Development and Acceleration of the Sustainable Economy (allocated budget 
– MDL 70 million).  
2.100.   Currently, ODIMM is in close collaboration with strategic donors of the Republic of Moldova, 
including the Delegation of the European  Union  to the Republic of Moldova, the World Bank, USAID, 
EBRD, GIZ, etc., and for 2022 a financial support of EUR  20-30 million is planned in order to support 
the business environment.  
2.3.1.1   Women entrepreneurship and tra de  
2.101.   Since 2015, significant efforts have been made by the Moldovan authorities to improve 
support for women 's entrepreneurship. First, the SME Strategy 2012 -2020 was revised, giving 
particular attention to women 's entrepreneurship. This includes a dedicate d "Women in Business " 
programme supporting women entrepreneurs through all phases of start -up development: 
pre-start-up and early phase development through to business growth. Start -up financing is also 
available, with projections for 2019 -20 of 280 women 's start -ups and up to EUR  75,000 in start -up 
capital per business. Additionally, the Business Academy for Women includes knowledge transfer 
between experienced entrepreneurs and women keen to scale up their businesses. Second, the 
setting of targets for wo men's entrepreneurship is good practice. ODIMM has set a target of 30% 
for women within its training drive, including a 30% target set for women within the wider effort to 
support young entrepreneurs and returning migrants, including loan guarantees and cr edits. These 
targets are already yielding results. For example, under the young entrepreneurs ' programme, 45% 
of those receiving entrepreneurial consultancy are women, with 43% following entrepreneurship 
training and 30% accessing finance. Further, 34% of 132 participants of the Moldovan Business 
Incubators Network are women. But more needs to be done to support women 's entrepreneurship 
in rural areas where employment opportunities are limited and where opting for migration comes at 
great family and social cost.  
2.102.   In terms of institutional support structures, the National Council for Women 's 
Entrepreneurship established in 2015 has lost momentum, but its mandate remains important: to 
ensure that government, private sector and civic interest groups can discuss , review and propose 
policy options to the government. A Women 's National Platform provides links to women 
entrepreneurs in local communities, and plays an important role in sharing success stories. It WT/TPR/G/42 8 • Republic of Moldova  
 
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  cooperates with ODIMM in hosting a Women's Entrepreneu rship Contest with prizes for (1) new 
product/services, (2) innovative start -up, (3) corporate social responsibility and (4) Women 
Entrepreneur of the Year.  
2.103.   Additionally, new initiatives launched during the review period provided an opportunity to 
develop  and extend women 's entrepreneur networks for good  practice exchange. Notwithstanding 
the substantial progress on women 's entrepreneurship, in terms of policy, data and training 
provision, challenges remain – particularly in terms of access to finance, wit h questions raised as to 
unequal treatment of women by banks and public authorities. By way of example according to the 
assessment made under the "SME Policy Index Eastern Partner Countries 2020 – Assessing the 
implementation of the small business act for Europe ", in applying for a bank loan, women business 
owners in the retail trade must pledge four times the collateral that men do, and are subjected to 
more severe tax scrutiny than their male counterparts, including requests for informal payments to 
tax inspectors.  
2.3.2   ICT development  
2.104.   Moldova 's ICT industry has been experiencing a dynamic growth, thanks to high market 
demand, competition, and consolidated effort. It annually generates about 7% of the country 's GDP, 
approaching a total value of revenues of about MDL  15 billion or USD 900 million . About five years 
ago, the electronic communications market in Moldova has experienced a period of agile competition 
and growth, positioning the country in top destinations with high -speed Internet, accessibility, an d 
recently – with availability of Gigabit Internet (ranked as 3rd and 10th country in the world). During 
the 2015 -2020, the engine of the ICT industry growth in Moldova became the IT sector , 
which increased fourfold, outpacing the telecoms. A dedicated pol icy and legislative framework for 
the Information Technology and Digital Industries has played a central role in its outstanding and 
dynamic evolution.  
2.105.   Comparing the GDP share of the IT sector in 2020 of about 3.6% with the 0.8% in 2013, 
when the IT secto r was only declared as a policy priority, the dynamic is remarkable . The growth 
in the IT industry has been driven by Moldova 's advantages as an outsourcing destination 
for the IT services, based on cost, location, and skills, as well as on a facilitated f iscal and 
administrative regime for the Virtual Moldova IT Park residents.  
2.106.   The number of ICT companies has exceeded 2,000 , while the number of employees reached 
24,000, registering about 140% growth for both indicators. The contribution to National GDP of 
those 24 ,000 ICT professionals, which constitute 1% of total population, is 7.45%, revealing the 
highest level of productivity in the industry per national economy.  From another perspective, 
this is about 2% of the available labour force in the country of about 900 ,000, which is more than 
two times lower than the EU average of 4.2% of ICT professionals.  
2.107.   The volume of the ICT industry exports doubled in 5 years, from 2.8  billion to MDL 7.3 billion 
when this evolution is attributed particularly to the IT shar e of export, which increased from 
MDL 1 billion to 6.4  billion - 460%.  
2.108.   The main engine of IT industry is "Moldova IT Park " - a virtual park which aims to improve 
competitiveness of national IT sector by providing a comprehensive organizational platform, a single 
tax of 7% on the sales revenue for all its residents, extended list of eligible IT and related activities, 
simplified  interaction with public authorities and "IT Visa " mechanism for attracting foreign 
employees. In 4 years of activity, it comprises almost 1 ,055 active residents, with more than 
15,200 employees and a forecasted revenue for 2022 of EUR  370 million , making it one of the most 
successful IT sector support initiative in Moldova.  
2.109.   According to Speed test Global Index, which provides a monthly comparison of Internet 
speed data for a benchmark of 100 countries around the world, the Republic of Moldova is ranked 
58th in terms of mobile broadband speed, with the download speed of 38  Mbps compared 
to the global average of 48  Mbps, and ranked 38th in terms of fixed broadband speed,  with 
the download speed of 106  Mbps - higher than the global average of 98 Mbps. Moldova is among 
top 10 countries in the world in terms of accessibility and affordability of Gigabit Internet 
access, where the users have access to unlimited Gigabit Internet for about EUR  15 per 
month.  WT/TPR/G/42 8 • Republic of Moldova  
 
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  2.110.   UN DESA e -Government Index attests considerable access to t he internet and IT devices in 
the Republic of Moldova, but the existing telecommunications infrastructure deployment in the 
country is below the Eastern Europe subregion average, meaning that further effort in this regard is 
needed to keep the country comp etitive.  
2.111.   Market demand and available content is the key element in the process of network 
development. So far, the capacities of 4G and terrestrial fibre networks are not fully used. 
Access to mobile Internet networks in 4G is accessible on 98% of the terr itory, as well as 
the points of presence of fibre optic backbone network (PoP) is at the same level, leaving to the 
potential beneficiaries to choose/request.  
2.112.   Following the previous Review , the Government of Moldova has provided a preferential 
legislative framework for the IT industry and came with policies dedicated to this industry being 
based on several public policy documents.  
2.113.   In this context, the main initiative dedicated to the development of the national IT industry 
is the Law on information technology parks No. 77/2016. Further, according to the provisions of this 
law, the Ministry of Economy and Infrastructure promoted the Government Decision No. 1144 of 
20/12/2017  on the creation of "Moldova IT Park".  
2.114.   The law on IT Parks offers a special tax regime for companies registered in the park, which 
includes the single tax of 7% that incorporates all taxes and fees paid by an IT co mpany. This regime 
also involves a simplified tax administration, reduced tax burden and virtual presence of residents, 
as well as a large number of eligible IT and related activities (software development, IT services, 
digital graphics and design, IT rese arch and development, IT educational projects). The special tax 
regime has allowed the unprecedented formalization of IT business and has considerably increased 
the tax base. Appreciating its positive impact, the Government promoted and approved a new draf t 
law by which it guarantees an extended fiscal regime of the IT Park until 2026.  
2.115.   Additionally, there is also important to mention that IT Park residents can attract foreign IT 
workforce on preferential terms, as a result of the adoption of the "IT Visa " initiative (Law No. 121 of 
23 July 2017).  
2.116.   This initiative provides the necessary legal framework in the field of migration of foreign IT 
specialists and IT managers, employed by the residents of Moldova IT Park, in order to be able to 
enter and remain on the territory of the Republic of Moldova.  
2.117.   Concerning the electronic communication, by Law No. 257/2020 on amending some 
legislative acts, was reduced the special tax in the amount of 2.5% of the income obtained from the 
sales related to the mobile telephon y services, paid in the population support fund (1.5% from 
1 January  2022). 
2.118.   Additionally, by Law No. 28 of 10 March  2016 on access to properties and shared use of 
infrastructure associated with public electronic communications networks was transposed some 
provision of the Directive No. 2002/21/EC.  
2.119.   Statistical data show that in 2021 the total volume of revenues in the electr onic 
communications sector, after a five -year recession, for the first time increased by 2.9% and 
exceeded EUR  305.97  million. This trend took shape having as background the growing markets for 
mobile broadband access, fixed broadband access and audio visual programs broadcasting. However, 
the decrease of revenues from fixed voice services was by 12%, and of mobile voice – by 0.9%.  
2.120.   According to the statistical data for 2021, the total volume of investments in the electronic 
communications sector increased by  19.3%, compared to 2020, and was estimated at 
EUR 56.28  million. In terms of the share of investments, the values of this indicator on the segments 
of mobile and fixed electronic communications networks, in 2021, represented 35.3% and 43.7%, 
accordingly. The share of this indicator on the audio visual  program broadcasting reached the value 
of about 21%.  WT/TPR/G/42 8 • Republic of Moldova  
 
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  2.3.3   Trade facilitation and customs developments  
2.121.   The Republic of Moldova ratified the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) on 24 June 2016. 
During the review peri od, Moldova achieved considerable progress in the implementation of the 
Agreement being among the first countries establishing a National Trade Facilitation Committee 
under the supervision of the Prime -Minister and by adopting a National Action Plan.  
2.122.   The Government continues its efforts on reducing trade barriers and facilitating trade 
through the implementation of the TFA. As a landlocked country, the implementation of this 
agreement by all Members is very important for Moldova. The Republic of Moldova ha s adopted in 
November 2017 its National Action Plan for Trade Facilitation. The Plan comprised 91 actions, with 
an estimated budget of over EUR  137.1  million was implemented by 14 State agencies in 
collaboration with the private sector under the guidance o f the National Trade Facilitation Committee. 
Moldova implemented around 80% of the agreement and still needs budget support in the 
implementation of the category C provisions of TFA which are mostly related to the creation of single 
window, pre -arrival pro cessing, expedited shipment, perishable goods and transit.  
2.123.   The Customs Service aims to maintain a balance between control and trade facilitation 
measures. Measures to simplify planned customs procedures will aim to reduce compliance costs, 
voluntary compli ance with customs regulations and, at the same time, increase the efficiency of 
customs control. Priority measures in the direction of trade facilitation and security implemented 
coherently and systemically will create conditions in which compliance with c ustoms regulations will 
be easy to ensure and difficult to avoid. For this, customs regulations will have to be adjusted so 
that they are simpler, more predictable and accessible to the environment business and passengers, 
and the risks of fraud are identi fied in advance and treated accordingly.  
2.124.   Recognizing that simplification and harmonization require, in particular, the approximation 
of customs regulations with international standards in the field of trade facilitation, the Customs 
Service will continue t o transpose European and international treaty rules into national regulations.  
2.125.   Developing the administrative capacity to apply international customs standards as a priority 
is key to the success of reforms and aims to create a more efficient and effective administration. 
Administrative capacity refers primarily to the preconditions that should be met in order to have a 
successful administration, or to the Customs Service at the current stage, these preconditions are 
in the field of customs infrastructure, I T system, staff and quality management. The overall objective 
of trade facilitation will be supported by ensuring adequate customs infrastructure that supports the 
needs of the business and ensures the provision of quality and safe customs clearance servic es. 
2.126.   Moldova, customs control is based on automated risk analysis system. The distribution of 
customs declarations for control (physical/red channel, documentary/yellow channel or without 
control/green channel) is ensured by the ASYCUDA Information System, through the Selectivity 
Module. The selectivity module contains Risk Profiles (national, regional or local) which are the result 
of risk analyses of potential or determined risks. Additionally, this Module contains the minimum 
control parameters as well as  the control level based on random selection.  
2.127.   The risk profiles are evaluated periodically or upon their expiration, as a result of which 
proposals are elaborated for modification, cancellation or extension of the profiling term.  
2.128.   In January 2014 started t he use of Moldova Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) 
program.  There are 115 economic operators with valid AEO authorizations.  This concept is a 
compliance management model designed in line with the Moldova AEO legal framework and 
international standards (WCO SAFE -Framework of Standards to secure and to facilitate Global 
Trade), including the EU AEO regulatory framework. In Nove mber 2021, EU Validation Mission on 
the implementation of Authori zed Economic Operator (AEO) programme in Moldova confirmed its 
compatibility with that of the EU.  
2.129.   The conclusion of the Agreement on the Mutual Recognition of AEO Programs between the 
Republi c of Moldova and the Member States of the European  Union  will provide certain mutual 
benefits to economic agents, including priority border cross ings - a special band for AEO holders and 
less controls.  WT/TPR/G/42 8 • Republic of Moldova  
 
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  2.130.   Additionally, starting from 2015 Republic of Moldova g rants the status of approved 
exporter , within the existent FTAs. The status of approved exporter from Moldova to contracting 
state – Republic of T ürkiye, all EU member states, or C entral European Free Trade Agreement 
(CEFTA)  member states and United Kingdo m of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, may be granted 
to any exporter satisfying a range of conditions approved by Government such as: performs export 
transactions for at least 1 year; has frequent shipments originating from Moldova; in previous 
12 month s has not committed repeated infringements or economic crimes related to the export of 
preferential originating goods etc.  
2.3.4   GPA developments  
2.131.   A major development in the government procurement sector since the last TPR, marks 
Moldova 's accession  and implement ation  of the Government Procurement Agreement (GPA) 
since July 2016.  
2.132.   Public procurement is one of the priority areas of the Government of the Republic of Moldova 
that contributes to the development of economic and social infrastructure, the provision of e fficient 
and qualitative public services, and the increase of trust in state institutions. In recent years the 
field of public procurement is undergoing a permanent reform, which aim to streamline the public 
procurement process, increase its level of trans parency, reduce the risks of fraud and corruption by 
the use of e -procurement platforms and tools.  
2.133.   The Ministry of Finance (MoF) is responsible for the implementation of GPA, having the role 
of developing and promoting policies in this area. For this purpo se, a Directorate of public 
procurement was recently created, taking over staff positions formerly allocated to the Public 
Procurement Agency. In the same time, the Public Procurement Agency (PPA) continues to be in 
charge of policy implementation under th e subordination to the MoF. The National Agency for the 
Settlement of Complaints is responsible for the remediation of the complaints submitted by the 
tender participants.  
2.134.   The policy of the public procurement system is oriented and focused on the main obj ectives:  
• Complete alignment of the legal framework with the European  Union  Acquis;  
• Improving the e -Procurement system – increasing transparency at all stages of the 
procurement process, "Everyone Sees Everything "; 
• Centralization of public procurement – development and use of centralized procurement 
activities;  
• Professionalization and certification of specialists in the field of public 
procurement - development of a professional evolution in the system for the staff 
responsible for public procurement.  
2.135.   In relation to public procurement, there is a high degree of harmoni zation of national 
legislation with the relevant EU standards. Since 2021 the public procurement legislation includes 
regulations on public procurement procedures for the award of contracts related to utility services 
and concessions for works and services.  Since 2018, all public procurement procedures are 
conducted electronically, with a general reduction in the administrative burden for economic subjects 
and substantial savings. Still, public authorities lack sufficient capacities in this sector, consideri ng 
also the lack of a regulation on certified specialists. Additionally, tenderers are provided with fully 
functional remedial opportunities, with the establishment of a new body for examining and resolving 
appeals in the interest of all parties.  
2.136.   Among th e major developments registered in government procurement sector shall be 
mentioned the following:  
2.137.   In 2015 was approved Law on public procurement No. 131/2015 that transposes Directive 
2004/18/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 31 March  2004 on the coordination of 
procedures for the award of public works contracts, public supply contracts and public service 
contracts.  WT/TPR/G/42 8 • Republic of Moldova  
 
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  2.138.   As an initial stage, among the first obligations to be fulfilled in the field of public procurement 
under the Association Ag reement, as well as to implement the provisions of the Agreement on 
Government Procurement, the Republic of Moldova adopted its first Strategy for the development of 
the public procurement system for 2016 - 2020 and its first action plan for the years 2016  - 2018 
approved by the Government Decision No. 1332/2016. The strategy was developed to reflect a clear 
vision of reforming the entire public procurement system, in line with the general principles of good 
governance, so as to provide the basis for sustainable development in the country.  
2.139.   Subsequently, on 1 October  2018, the new amendments to Law No. 131/2015 on public 
procurement was adopted by Law No. 169/2018. The Law amending and supplementing 
Law No. 131/2015 on public procurement was developed in order to harmonize the national 
regulatory framework  with the acquis Communautaire , in accordance with the commitments of the 
Republic of Moldova to the European  Union  with the ratification of the Association Agreement, by 
Law No. 112/2014.  
2.140.   All types of public procurement procedures were implemented: open tend er, restricted 
tender, competitive dialogue, negotiated procedures, request for price offers, solution competition, 
procurement for social services and other specific services, partnership for innovation, how and 
specific techniques and instruments for the  award of public contracts: framework agreement, 
dynamic procurement system, electronic auction, electronic catalog, in accordance with Directive 
2014/2014/EU on public procurement.  
2.141.   Starting with 1 October  2018, with the entry into force of the amendments to Law 
No. 131/2015, all contracting authorities were obliged to use the electronic procurement system for 
the publication of invitations/notices of participation, for the submission and evaluation of tenders, 
the award and electronic signing of public pro curement contracts, in accordance with Directive 
2014/2014 / EU on public procurement.  
2.142.   From 14 December  2018, based on Law No. 319/2018 for amending the Law No. 131/2015, 
the value thresholds for the application of the provisions of the Law on public procurement have 
been increased. Thus, the publication of the participation notices became mandatory for the 
acquisitions of goods and services, the value of which, w ithout VAT, exceeds MDL 200,000 and for 
the works of MDL 250,000 without VAT.  
2.143.   On 26/06/2021 , Law No. 74/2020 on procurement in the energy, water, transport and postal 
services sectors, which regulates the procedures for awarding procurement contracts, appl ied by 
entities carrying out relevant activities in the field of energy, water, transport and post. Law 
No. 74/2020 aims to align with the legal framework of the European  Union  Acquis, as well as to 
transpose the basic elements of the European  Union  Direct ive 2014/25/EU on procurement by 
entities operating in the water, energy, transport and services sectors and repealing Directive 
2004/17/EC, published in the Official Journal of the EU No. 94/243 of 28 March 2014.  
2.144.   In addition to legal reforms, profound ins titutional reforms have taken place in the field of 
public procurement. Thus, during 2019 and 2020, changes were made to the structure of the central 
apparatus of the Ministry of Finance, through which the Public Procurement Regulatory Policy Service 
was r eplaced by the Public Procurement Department and the limit staff was increased to 12 units. 
The basic function of the Department is to develop, implement and promote state policy in the field 
of public procurement, including by harmonizing legislation with  European  Union  Directives and 
international standards.  
2.145.   The Public Procurement Agency, which is a specialized administrative authority subordinated 
to the Ministry of Finance, was assigned with the tasks of monitoring the compliance of public 
procurement p rocedures, performing the analysis of the public procurement system, providing 
methodological assistance and consultations, and organizing seminars training in public 
procurement.  
2.146.   In addition to the Public Procurement Agency, in accordance with Law No. 131/2015 on 
public procurement, the National Agency for the Settlement of Appeals/Complaints was established 
as an autonomous and independent public authority from other public authorities, from individuals 
and legal entities, which is responsible for ensurin g the transparency of the decision -making process WT/TPR/G/42 8 • Republic of Moldova  
 
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  in resolving appeals, being a commitment of the Republic of Moldova assumed by signing the 
Association Agreement with the European  Union . 
2.147.   Additionally, another major development since the 1st TPR in GPA is the use of 
e-procurement system.  
2.148.   Moldova 's e-procurement system, the Automated Information System "State Register of 
Public Procurement " (SIA "RSAP " MTender) is an online electronic system, accessible via the Internet 
at a dedicated address, used for the electronic application of public procurement processes, for 
posting invitations /notices at national level, submission and evaluation of tenders, awa rd, and 
electronic signing of public procurement contracts. The SIA "RSAP " owner is the Ministry of Finance. 
However, the current edition of SIA "RSAP " ("MTender ") is not fully aligned with all e -procurement 
provisions in the PPL. At the same time, a previ ous e -procurement system is still functional and is 
being used by the Centre for Centralized Procurement in Health (CAPCS), mainly due to the lack of 
technical functionalities for centralized procurement within the new system. As prescribed by the 
law, the  CAPCS is intended to shift to the new e -procurement system starting 1 January  2021. 
Moldova: MAPS Assessment of the Public Procurement System 12 The MTender platform started 
being developed by the MoF with the support of the EBRD in the framework of a Mem orandum1 
between the competent authorities, the private sector and civil society that was signed on 
30 November  2016. The use of current MTender system was launched at the beginning of 2017 as 
a pilot project for small value procurement. While the old syst em was still in place, the contracting 
authorities had the right to decide to carry out electronically small value procurement through the 
new system. A year and a half later, in October 2018, the new electronic system became mandatory 
for conducting procu rement under the PPL, despite a number of technical shortcomings, including 
the limitation to only two of the procedures provided for in the PPL, carried out through electronic 
auctions with price as the only award criterion. Efforts have nevertheless cont inued to improve the 
system so that it would cover the entire procurement cycle, from planning to contract management, 
allowing the contracting authorities to conduct any procurement activity or procedure regulated by 
the PPL.  
2.3.5   IP rights  
2.149.   IP registered sign ificant developments during the reporting period. The Moldovan IP system 
continued to be developed in accordance with the international and European commitments in the 
field, including WTO/TRIPS, WIPO treaties and RM -EU Associations Agreement and in line w ith the 
goals provided in the National Intellectual Property Strategy (NIPS) up to 2020 and the NIPS 
implementation Action Plans for the years 2015 -2017 and the 2018 -2020 respectively.  
2.150.   In order to consolidate the institutional capacities of intellectual p roperty system, continuous 
efforts were made to improve the access and quality of IP services, to increase the competences of 
the personnel involved in IP protection and enforcement from control bodies and judiciary. State 
Agency on Intellectual Property ( AGEPI), the state authority responsible for granting IPR in the 
Republic of Moldova, has continuously consolidating its institutional capacities with a view to  improve 
the access and quality of IP services. AGEPI implemented an e -filing and e -payment syste m and 
provides a broad range of IP services, including a Call Cent re. Since 2017, AGEPI is certified with 
ISO 9001:2015 for Quality Management.  
2.151.   To better integrate into the European IP system, on 11 July 2017, AGEPI signed a 
Memorandum of Understanding wi th the European  Union  Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO), 
providing for measures and projects aimed at consolidation and development of the tools offered to 
IP users, including by the integration of Moldovan Trademark and Design data into the EU database s.  
2.152.   Since 2015, a European patents validation system is implemented in Moldova, making 
possible for European patents right holders to validate their patents in the Republic directly through 
the European Patent Office.  
2.153.   To increase the efficiency of the Nat ional Commission on Intellectual Property, the 
Government Decision No.  489/2008 on the National Commission on Intellectual Property was 
amended (by Government Decision No.  542/2020).   WT/TPR/G/42 8 • Republic of Moldova  
 
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  2.154.   The Custom Code was brought in line with the TRIPs provisions and incor porates the 
principles of the EU Regulation No 608/2013 concerning customs enforcement of intellectual 
property rights and repealing Council Regulation (EC) No  1383/2003. In addition, New Regulations 
of customs measures applied at the border for intellectual property protection was approved by 
Government Decision No. 915 of 26 June 2016, establishing the border enforcement procedure in 
line with the EU Regulation  No 608/2013 concerning customs enforcement of intellectual property 
rights and repealing Council Regulation (EC) No  1383/2003.  
2.155.   In order to consolidate the IP Attorneys ' system in Moldova, a Code of Ethics and Conduct 
for IP Attorneys was approved by the Government Decision No.  714 of 18 July 2018 amending the 
Regulations on the Activity of the Authorized Intellectual Property Attorneys.  
2.156.   Also, important improvements have been made in relation to the enforcement. Therefore, 
with the purpose to improve the I P dispute settlement system, through the Government Decision 
No. 987 of 21 November  2017 was approved the Regulation on the Organization and Functioning of 
the Arbitration Specialized in Intellectual Property and the Arbitral Procedure, which aims to estab lish 
the mechanism for settling disputes concerning the violation of intellectual property rights through 
a specialized arbitration in the field of intellectual property.  
2.3.6   Agriculture  
2.157.   The Republic of Moldova is a country with an agrarian economy, whose area  consists of 
3,384.7  ha, of which 63% are agricultural land (2 ,129.6 ha). With more than 2 .6 million people, i.e. 
57 % of the total population, living in rural areas, the Republic of Moldova is a predominantly less 
urbani zed country. Thus, the agriculture sector is a mainstay of the country 's economy with the 
majority of the population living in rural areas and depending on agriculture for food and income. 
Since about 90% of crop production is rainfed, the survival of farmers strongly depends on their 
resilience to the weather.  
2.158.   Agriculture and agriculture processing industry remain among the most important activities 
in the Republic of Moldova, contributing with MDA  46,385 billion (EUR  2,361 billion) to the GDP. The 
employment in the agricultural sector con sists of 181,200 workers in 2021, amounting around 21 .5% 
of total employment in the labour market. In terms of employment, the sector registered a significant 
decline in the last 10 years comparing to the share of the same indicator was about 48 .9% in 2011.  
2.159.   The reason for such a significant decrease is mainly due to the fact that until 2019, the 
calculation of persons employed in the agricultural sector included persons who practised agriculture 
as the main source of income in households, thus ra ising the share of those who worked in the 
agricultural sector. Nevertheless, the share of employment rate in the sector remains the highest in 
the Republic of Moldova.  
2.160.   Between 2017 and 2021, overall agricultural production increased both, in volume and va lue. 
The volume of plant production increased by 24%, while the volume of animal production declined 
by 24%. The value of agricultural production increased overall by 27%, with plant production 
increasing by 35 .8% and animal production increasing only by 1 .8%. Overall, real production 
increased by 8% between 2017 and 2021, being measured in USD. During this period, the share of 
cereals, sunflower, potatoes, and some other plant products in the total value of agriculture 
production increased significantly at  the expense of animal products.  
2.161.   Moldova 's agriculture is highly vulnerable to climate change and natural disasters as 
freezing, hail, heavy rains, or severe droughts, etc. For example, recently, in 2020, a severe drought 
affected all the entire country and almost all its crops, leading to sharp declines in Agri production, 
especially for wheat and maize which lead to a decrease of almost half comparing to the average 
production over the past years. Due to weather and climate conditions agricultur e sectors is highly 
unpredictable. In 2021, according to the National Bureau of Statistics, the overall agricultural 
production increased by nearly 50% back to volumes exceeding those of the 2019 year. The increase 
was due to the good harvest year and incr ease of the crop production.  
2.162.   As mentioned, and in the Secretariats report, the agricultural enterprises play an important 
role in the agricultural sector, although their role varies significantly across different commodities. 
In 2021, they accounted for 58 % of total crop harvests, with peasant (farmer) households WT/TPR/G/42 8 • Republic of Moldova  
 
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  accounting for 23%, and other households for 19%. While their share in the production of cereals 
and pulses (without maize) accounted for 77% and around 90% for sugar beet, tobacco, and rape, 
peasa nt farmers were the largest producers of fruits, nuts, and berries (51% of total production) 
and grapes (36%), while potatoes and vegetables were primarily produced by other households.  
2.163.   In the area of foreign trade in agri -food products, there is the same trend as at the beginning 
of the previous decade, which only intensified after the signing of the Association Agreement and 
DCFTA with the European  Union  in 2014. Thus, after signing the Agreement, share of trade with C IS 
states steadily declined, reaching  record lows in 2021 (17.8%). At the same time, exports of 
agri-food production to other markets, especially the EU market, have grown rapidly. Thus, in the 
period 2014 - 2021 the share of agri -food production exports in EU countries increased from 41.3% 
to 45.2% and in other countries from 23.7% in 2014 to 37% in 2021.  
2.164.   The National Strategy for Agricultural and Rural Development 2022 -2027 (NSARD 2027) 
which is in the final phase of parliamentary endorsement represents the third consecutive planning 
documen t in the domain of agri -food and the second one with regard to rural development. 
NARDS -2027 corresponds to the provisions of the National Development Strategy "Moldova 2030" 
and the Common Agricultural Policy of the European  Union . 
2.165.   The new Strategy starts  from the general goal of contributing decisively to the 
implementation of pillars 1 and 4 of the National Development Strategy "Moldova 2030", respecting 
the commitments on the implementation of the Sustainable Development Agenda 2030.  
2.166.   The strategy gives  continuity to initiatives in the field funded by external partners. 
International donor programs and projects will continue to have a significant impact on both the 
development of the agro -industrial sector and the growth of institutional strengthening ca pacities.  
2.167.   The strategic vision of this document is to develop a competitive agro -food sector, focused 
on value chains with high potential, environmentally friendly and climate resilient, which strengthens 
food security and safety and provides better welfar e and living conditions in rural areas.  
2.168.   Based on the development needs related to inputs, agricultural processes, markets and 
community involvement in rural development, the Strategy defines three general strategic 
objectives, which aim to strengthen the p otential of the resilient agricultural sector to climate 
change, promote smart, efficient and sustainable agricultural practices, the development of the local 
market and the increase of the export potential, as well as the support of a sustainable rural 
socio-economic development.  
2.169.   With reference to the fiscal policy measures aimed primarily at the agricultural sector, 
according to Art.  96 of the Fiscal Code No. 1163/1997, the following reduced VAT rates are set:  
• 8% – for the production of animal husbandry i n natural form, live mass, pyrotechnics and 
horticulture in natural form, produced, imported and / or delivered on the territory of the 
Republic of Moldova, such as dill and parsley, fresh or chilled sugar beet, etc . 
• 8% – for sugar beet sugar, produced, im ported and / or delivered on the territory of the 
Republic of Moldova;  
2.170.   At the same time, in order to develop the agricultural sector in terms of fiscal policy, the 
reduced rate of income tax for peasant households was established – in the amount of 7% (gen eral 
rate of 12%).  
2.171.   The Republic of Moldova 's applied MFN tariffs on agricultural products (WTO definition), 
including certain AVEs, averaged 11 .7% in 2021, less from 13.5% in 2015; non -ad valorem  tariffs 
applied mostly to agricultural imports. Tariff protection remains highest for sugar (75%), followed 
by animals and animal products (averaging 16.2%). The Republic of Moldova applies seasonal tariffs 
to 14 lines ( e.g. certain types of potatoes, tom atoes, cucumbers, grapes and other fruits). It applies 
tariff rate quotas on imports of sugar; preferential tariff rate quotas are also in place for certain 
exports under autonomous trade preferences granted by the EU in 2008. Certain agricultural 
products  are subject to import licensing requirements. No taxes or licensing requirements apply to 
agricultural exports. The TRQs are applied on a FIFO principle (First come first served).  WT/TPR/G/42 8 • Republic of Moldova  
 
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  2.172.   The Government  fully acknowledges the importance of agricultural sector whi ch is being a 
vital part of the economy. In this context it has increased subsidies for the farmers, however the 
rate of the subsidies remains modest given insufficient budget funds. In the period of 2020 -2022, 
6.4 billion Lei (EUR 328 million) were alloca ted for the Agriculture and Rural Development sector 
from the state budget, distributed on the priority programs of the agricultural field, as well as from 
other external sources.  
3  TRADE  POLICY AND PREFERENTIAL TRADE  REGIMES  
Overview  
3.1.  The Republic of Moldov a became the 142nd Member of the WTO in July 2001.  
3.2.  Since its independence in 1991, the Republic of Moldova embarked on an ambitious reform 
programme aimed at transforming a centrally planned economy to a fully functioning market 
economy, and restoring macr oeconomic stability. It has largely met these objectives creating an 
outward -oriented economy, well integrated worldwide. Liberalization of trade and investment, driven 
by extensive commitments taken during its accession to the WTO in 2001 and its goal to accede to 
the European  Union  (EU), has been a major feature in this process.  
3.3.  The Republic of Moldova is strongly committed to the multilateral trading system and it has 
undertook extensive commitments upon its WTO accession binding 100% of its tariff lines  at low 
rates and making extensive specific commitments under the GATS, as well as under the rest of 
WTO Agreement s. 
3.4.  The Republic of Moldova bound all its tariff lines at a final average rate of 6.9%. On agricultural 
products the Republic of Moldova bound its tariff lines at a final simple average rate of 13.8% 
(compared with a simple average applied MFN rate of 13.5%). For non -agricultural goods, the final 
simple average bound tariff rate is 5.9%, while the simple average applied MFN rate is only 4.4%.  
3.5.  According to the most recent tariff statistics Moldova applied in 2021 the total simple MFN 
applied average represents 5.3%, while the total trade weighted MFN applied average only 4.2%. 
In the same time for Agri products the simple MFN applied average repre sented 11.7% while the 
trade weighted applied average represented a lower figure of 11.2%. For Non -agricultural products 
Moldova applied a simple average of 4 .3% while the trade weighted average represented only 3.2%.  
3.6.  Therefore, comparing to most Members,  commitments made by Moldova on market access 
show a very impressive rate of liberalization.  
• The formulation and implementation of the Republic of Moldova's trade policy lies within 
the responsibility of the Ministry of Economy (ME), in cooperation with o ther ministries 
and trade -related agencies. The ME is also responsible for: WTO issues, negotiating and 
implementing Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and promoting trade and investment. The 
ME coordinates several institutions including the Agency for Consumer Protection and 
Market Supervision and the Agency for Technical Supervisory, as well as supervises 
several institutions including the Investigation Body for contingency trade measures, the 
National Accreditation Centre of the Republic of Moldova (MOLDAC), t he Organization for 
the Development of Small and Medium Enterprises Sector (ODIMM), the National Institute 
of Metrology, and the National Institute of Standardization.  
• The Ministry of Economy cooperates during the trade policy formulation process, also wit h 
other ministries and trade -related agencies, notably the Customs Service under the 
Ministry of Finance. Additionally, the ME holds consultations with the private sector in the 
formulation of Moldova's trade policy on ad hoc  basis, including through brief ings and 
public consultations on FTA negotiations.  
WTO and J oint Statement Initiatives  
3.7.  Moldova makes continuous efforts of trade liberalization, global economic integration and 
development – being a genuine and determined supporter of the multilateral trading system  (MTS)  
set up within WTO .  WT/TPR/G/42 8 • Republic of Moldova  
 
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  3.8.  The Government of Moldova  reaffirm s its determination to contribute for further strengthening 
and improving the existing multilateral trading system, wit h a view to better enabling Members  to 
respond to the needs of economic, financial, inclusive and sustainable development.  
3.9.  Moldova  deem s WTO as the main platform for discussion of trade matters and consider s that 
the determination to join hands in working  for the cause of development through trade and other 
instruments are essential for the organization . 
3.10.   In this context , during the last 7 years, Moldova has been actively engaged in intensified 
discussions within WTO on the topics related to  the establishme nt of the Joint Initiatives on  
E-commerce,  Investment Facilitation for Development,  Services Domestic Regulation , MSMEs 
participation in international trade, Trade and Gender , Trade and Environmental Sustainability , as 
well as Fossil Fuel Subsidies Reform.   
3.11.   Moldova is  a cosponsor of all Joint Initiatives ( JSIs) established within WTO  and was among 
the founding members of these  joint initiatives back at MC11 ( starting from Nairobi  and Buenos 
Aires). Moldova  also strongly support s new initiatives within WTO w hich make the organization  more 
relevant and responsive  to the current realities . 
3.12.   Moldova  consider s itself as  a 'friend of the system ', therefore during the review period  it also 
co-sponsored a series of Declarations and statements in support of the WTO and MTSi. 
3.13.   We maintain the view that our common efforts must be oriented towards keeping WTO 
relevant and efficient including through these, trade -related initiatives - which add a fresh air to 
negotiations within this house, registering commendable results during last year.  
3.14.   Referring to the compliance with notifications obligations  of the Republic of Moldova 
within WTO , shall be noted that Moldova is a strong supporter of t he principle of transparency 
promoted within WTO.  
3.15.   In order to comply with its transparency obligations assumed under the Multilateral Trade 
Agreements within WTO, as well, plurilateral Agreements as GPA (Government Procurement 
Agreement), the Republic of Moldova presents annually all its compulsory notifications according to 
the established timeline, as well as ad hoc  ones.  
3.16.   During the review period Moldova submitted more than 130 notifications comprising around 
153 notifications. The Republic of Moldova h as made regular notifications to the WTO, increasing the 
rate of notifications during the review period . At the end of 2017, Moldova had no outstanding 
notifications. It has also regularly submitted tariff and imports data to the WTO Integrated Data 
Base ( IDB). Also, Moldova, TRIPS notifications, Customs Notifications, Import licensing, as well  as 
Market Access notification.  
3.17.   Since its last TPR, the Republic of Moldova took an active part in the Trade Policy review of 
other Members . Moreover, Moldova is among those few WTO members who provides quarterly  TPRB 
feedback and notifies all its recent modifications of the national legislation, which could have a direct 
or indirect impact on trade in goods and services within the WTO Trade Monitoring Report s.  
3.18.   Republic of Moldova notified in a timely manner the WTO members  the measures imposed in 
the context of C ovid Pandemic affecting trade in goods, services and impact on economic activity. 
Notifications have been sent to the relevant Committees, as CMA , TPRB se mi-manual  reports, and 
informal group on  MSMEs and others.  
Preferential Trade  Regimes   
3.19.   One of the priorities of the Government remains to be the diversification of export markets, 
as well as products. Few regional free trade agreements entered into force and have been 
implemented by Moldova since the previous Review  (DCFTA with EU, FTA with Türkiye, as well as 
FTA with UK).  
3.20.   The Republic of Moldova considers Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), as an important 
supplement to the multilateral trading system established under the WTO, allowing further WT/TPR/G/42 8 • Republic of Moldova  
 
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  integration into the global economy and increased trade cooperation with other countries. Moldova 
particularly aims to exploi t its favo urable  geographic position in the Central Eastern Europe (being 
seen as a bridge between the European and Asian economic regions), through the implementation 
and negotiation of new Free Trade Agreements which remain an important priority to the 
Government.   
3.21.   Moldova already has a wide range of FTAs in place with all its major trading partners . 
3.22.   FTAs are in place with all major export destinations, which cover around 90% of current 
exports. Similarly, around 82% of imports are sourced from FTA partne rs, with some  exception s.  
3.23.   Moldova has 1 6 free trade agreements ( FTAs) in force encompassing 46  partners: Albania, 
Armenia, the Republic of Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, EU -27, Georgia, Kazakhstan, 
UNMIK/Kosovo, Kyrgyz  Republic , FYR of Maced onia, Montenegro, Russian  Federation , Serbia, 
Tajikistan, Türkiye, Turkmenistan, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, 
Ukraine and Uzbekistan. A part of Moldova's RTAs ha s been notified to the WTO and some have been 
reviewed by the Comm ittee on Regional Trade Agreements (Table A1.1). 
3.3.1   DCFTA with European  Union   
3.24.   The Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Areas between the EU and its Member States and 
the Republic of Moldova (the DCFTA) is the economic and trade pillar of the EU -Moldova Associat ion 
Agreement (AA). The general purpose of the AA is to deepen political association and economic 
integration between the EU and Moldova. To achieve this objective, the DCFTA provides far -reaching 
and progressive regulatory approximation to EU law in trade -related areas and foresee gradual 
reciprocal market opening. With these distinctive components this type of agreement goes beyond 
the 'new generation' FTAs and represent "a unique type of trade agreements ". DCFTA 's 
implementation contributed to the country 's economic growth, as a result of increased trade 
exchanges and volumes. Moreover, it triggered deep transformations of the economy, way of 
thinking and operating in terms of quality of goods, diversification of products, competitiveness, and 
manag ement.  
3.25.   The European  Union  is Moldova's biggest and most important trading partner, accounting for 
61% of its total export of goods in 2021. This figure varied in the last 6 years between 61% in 2021 
and 69% in 2018. Moldova's exports to the EU received a s trong boost especially after the provisional 
entry into force of the EU -Moldova Association Agreement (AA) and the Deep and Comprehensive 
Free Trade Area (DCFTA), on 01 September  2014, which removed most part of tariff and non -tariff 
barriers. The number o f companies involved in trade with the EU has continued to increase since 
then, from 1 ,243 exporting companies in 2015, 1748 - in 2017, 1 ,837 Moldovan companies exporting 
to the EU in 2019 and 1 ,860 – in 2021. In 2021, Moldovan exports of goods to the EU a mounted to 
slightly more than USD 1.9 billion, an increase of 44% as compared to 2016. Imports from the EU 
increased, however, in the same period by almost 60%, causing a negative trade balance of 
USD 1.2 billion . 
3.26.   Exports to the EU countries increased at a  faster pace - 44% in 2021 compared to 2016, or 
8% per year, on average. More than ¼ of all Moldovan exports in 2021 were generated by the 
agriculture sector (26%). Together with the food production (11.7%) and beverages & tobacco 
(6.9%) sectors, the agri -food products accounted for almost 45% of all Moldovan exports in 2021 
(figure 3). Machine building sector was the second largest sector in terms of exports, with 1/5 of all 
exports (20%).  
3.27.   Only five out of the 20 sectors decreased or increased only margin ally exports in the last 
five years: production of leather or related products ( -1.8%), textiles (0%) and computer, electronic 
and optical products (1.4%). Most dynamic increase was displayed by the water, sewerage and 
waste management (523%), other indust rial activities (274%), basic metals (147%). The machine 
building sector increased exports by 97% in the last 5 years, agriculture - by 51%, foodstuffs - by 
68%, beverages and tobacco - by 27%, while the pharmaceutical sector - by 75%.  
3.28.   Most part of Moldova 's exports to the EU in 2021 were generated by the machine building 
sector (25%). Agriculture provided almost 13% of all exports to the EU, followed by the foodstuff WT/TPR/G/42 8 • Republic of Moldova  
 
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  sector (11%), basic metals sector (12.5%), wearing and apparel (8.5%), furniture (7%) and textiles 
(5%) sectors. Altogether, these 7 sectors made up 83% of all exports to the EU in 2021.  
3.29.   In contrast to the trade in goods, trade in services with the EU is more balanced, even with a 
trade surplus in 4 out of the last 5 years. In absolute terms, h owever, exports of services to the EU 
are almost 4 times smaller than the exports of goods, amounting to USD 482 million in 2020. Also, 
in contrast to the exports in goods, most of the exports of services go to other than the EU countries. 
In 2020, the EU share in total Moldovan export of services accounted only for 38%, reaching its 
peak of 43% in 2017, in the last 5 years. Export of services to the EU grew only by 20% from 2016 
to 2020, however one should keep in mind that 2020 is not a representative yea r for any trend 's 
analysis, as exports of any kind (goods and services) had been severely affected by the COVID -19 
crises.  
3.30.   Preliminary NBM data on the exports of services in 2021 show an increase of almost 
USD 360 million (28%) in the overall export of se rvices from 2020 to 2021, much above the average 
of the last 5 years, up to USD 1.635  billion. Compared to 2016, total export of services grew by 53% 
in 2021.  
3.3.2   Ongoing FTA negotiations  
3.31.   Currently , the Republic of Moldova  is undergoing  negotiations of a free trade agreement  with 
the EFTA Member States. Negotiations on a free trade agreement between the Republic of Moldova 
and EFTA countries (European Free Trade Association) have been launched in March 2021. For the 
second round of FTA negotiations Parties met in July 2021.    
4  CONCLUSIONS  
4.1.  Moldova is a small Central –Eastern European country with widely opened developing economy , 
which undertook high level of commitments  both in goods and services,  back in 2001 when acceding 
to the WTO  (being an Art.  XII group member) , comparing t o that of developed countries (in some 
cases even overpassing them). Undoubtedly the accession to WTO and the reforms undertaken  
continue to further contribute  to the development of our country.  
4.2.  Moldova registered significant progress after its 1st TPR. T hus, during the review period, 
Moldova registered important developments in many sectors, notably shall be highlighted the 
improvement of business climate through the regulatory reform, the fast development of ICT sector, 
progress in GPA implementation, tr ade facilitation, etc.  
4.3.  WTO is of a vital importance, especially for a small, vulnerable, and liberalized economy, as 
the one of the Republic of Moldova 's. The Government of Moldova continues to be opened to support 
activities and initiatives that are considered pragmatic, efficient, and that  would improve the 
functionality this organization – making it stronger and more responsive towards the realities  of the 
current century . 
4.4.  During the review period , the Republic of Moldova was not only a beneficiary of t he MTS 
processes, but actively participated and took action to strengthen the commitment to the 
liberalization of international trade under the umbrella of WTO agreements , with a view to making 
more efficient and responsive the organization. In this contex t, Moldova has supported the initiation 
and participation in all joint initiatives on: E -commerce, Investment Facilitation for Development, 
Informal group of Micro, Small and Medium -sized Enterprises (MSMEs), Services Domestic 
Regulation, Fossil Fuels Subs idies Reform initiative, Trade and Environmental Sustainability  for 
Development , as well as discussions on Women's  empowerment within Trade and Gender initiative. 
Additionally, Moldova supported most statements for the efficient functioning of the MTS unde r WTO, 
also considering itself a `friend of the system`. Besides, these Moldova is being a member of Trade 
and Health Initiative co -sponsor.  
4.5.  Moldova strongly supports the necessity of restoring of a fully functional two -tiered Dispute 
Settlement System , considering that the DSS must remain a priority for all members  which is 
imperative for the enforcement of the WTO legal framework, representing its core legal guarantee. 
Moldova is among the list of members who supported the initiative on unblockage of the 
Appellate  Body crisis.  WT/TPR/G/42 8 • Republic of Moldova  
 
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  4.6.  As a strong promoter of transparency principle within WTO, Moldova has made regular 
notifications to the WTO, however by September 2021, it had  few outstanding notifications  mainly, 
those related to Agriculture Agreement (DS1 no tifications) which were not presented due to capacity 
constraints. Moldova is in close collaboration with ITTC in order to fulfil its notification obligations 
including in Agriculture, in an urgent manner.  
4.7.  Currently, the external macroeconomic situation i s determined by a sharp acceleration of the 
annual rate of inflation since last year which is maintaining a high level the current  year. This has 
generated inflationary pressures pronounced against the background of the energy crisis at the 
regional level,  sharp rise in commodity prices, raw materials and food, but also the significant 
increase in international freight transport costs  and war in Ukraine . 
4.8.  The pandemic, the energy crisis, and most recently, the refugee crisis starkly exposed the 
vulnerabiliti es of this growth model to shocks. Moldova is likely to be one of the countries most 
affected by the conflict not only because of its physical proximity to the war but also because of its 
inherent vulnerabilities as a small, landlocked economy with close l inkages to both Ukraine and the 
Russian  Federation . 
4.9.  As economic activity shrinks due to shocks from the war and the ongoing impacts of the 
COVID -19 pandemic, the Government, which has a strong mandate, parliamentary support, and 
trust among citizens and in ternational partners, is making efforts to  find ways to mitigate the 
economic impact while maintaining momentum on the long -term agenda. At the current economic 
juncture, it is paramount that short -term recovery measures are complemented by long -term 
reforms that will help steer the economy away from the current economic model.   WT/TPR/G/42 8 • Republic of Moldova  
 
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  ANNEXE TABLE  
Table A1. 1 The Republic of Moldova's Free Trade Agreements in force  
 
Agreement  Description  
Republic of Moldova  – European  Union  
Title Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area between the EU and Moldova  
Parties  Austria; Belgium; Bulgaria; Croatia; Cyprus; Czech  Republic ; Denmark; 
Estonia; Finland; France; Germany; Greece; Hungary; Ireland; Italy; 
Latvia; Lithuania; Luxembourg; Malta;  Republic of Moldova; Netherlands; 
Poland; Portugal; Romania; Slovak  Republic ; Slovenia; Spain; Sweden  
Date of signature/entry into 
force  June 2014/September 2014  
Selected features  Agreement applies to goods and services; national treatment and market 
access for goods; trade remedies; TBT, standardization, metrology, 
accreditation and conformity assessment; SPS measures; customs and 
trade facilitation; establishment, trade in services and electronic commerce; 
current payments and movement of capital; pub lic procurement; IPR; 
competition; trade -related energy; transparency; trade and sustainable 
development; dispute settlement,  
WTO document series  WT/REG352  
Central European Free Trade Agreement (CEFTA)  
Title CEFTA 2006  
Parties (current)  Albania; Bosnia and Herzegovina; Moldova; Montenegro; Serbia; The former 
Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia; UNMIK/Kosovo  
Date of signature/entry into 
force December 2006/May 2007  
Selected features  Agreement applies to goods only; customs -related procedures; investment; 
dispute settlement; intellectual property rights  
WTO document series  WT/REG233  
CISa 
Title Treaty on a Free Trade Area between members of the CIS  
Parties  Armenia; Belarus; Kazakhstan; Kyrgyz  Republic ; Republic of Moldova; 
Russian  Federation ; Tajikistan; Ukraine  
Date of signature/entry into 
force  October 2011/September -December 2012  
Selected features  Agreement applies to goods only; accession; balance of payments; 
competition; customs -related procedures; dispute settlement; exceptions, 
general or for security; export restrictions; rules of origin; safeguard 
measures  
WTO document series  WT/REG173  
Republic of Moldova -Türkiye  
Title Free Trade Agreement between the Republic of Moldova and Türkiye  2014 
Parties (current)  Republic of Moldova – Türkiye  
Date of signature/entry into 
force 2014 
Selected features  Agreement applies to goods only and services to be negotiated; customs -
relate d procedures; investment; dispute settlement; intellectual property 
rights, trade remedies, rules of origin  
Republic of Moldova  – Armenia  
Title Free Trade Agreement between Armenia and Moldova  
Parties  Armenia and Moldova  
Date of signature/entry into 
force  December 1993/December 1995  
Selected features  Agreement applies to goods only; accession; balance of payments; 
competition; customs -related procedures; dispute settlement; exceptions, 
general or for security; export res trictions; rules of origin; safeguard 
measures  
WTO consideration status  Factual presentation completed  
WTO document series  WT/REG173  
Republic of Moldova – Kyrgyz  Republic  
Title Free Trade Agreement between the Kyrgyz  Republic  and Moldova  
Parties  Kyrgyz  Republic  and Moldova  
Date of signature/entry into 
force May 1995/November 1996  
Selected features  Agreement applies to goods only; accession; balance of payments; 
competition; countervailing measures; customs -related procedures; dispute 
settlement; exceptions, general or for security; export restrictions; 
intellectual property rights; rules of origin; safeguard measures; SPS; TBT  WT/TPR/G/42 8 • Republic of Moldova  
 
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  Agreement  Description  
WTO consideration status  Factual abstract distributed  
Republic of Moldova Russian  Federation  
Title Agreement between the Cabinet of Ministers – the Russian  Federation  and 
the Republic of Moldova on Free Trade  
Parties  Russian  Federation  and Moldova  
Date of signature/entry into 
force February 1993/March 1993  
Selected features  Agreement applies to goods  only; customs -related procedures  
WTO document series  WT/REG320  
Republic of Moldova – Ukraine  
Title Free Trade Agreement between the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine and the 
Government of the Republic of Moldova  
Parties  Ukraine and Moldova  
Date of signature/entry into 
force  November 2003/May 2005  
Selected features  Agreement applies to goods only; competition; customs -related procedures; 
dispute settlement; exceptions, general or for security; export restrictions; 
government procurement; i ntellectual property rights; rules of origin; 
safeguard measures; SPS; subsidies; TBT  
WTO document series  WT/REG249  
Republic of Moldova – Azerbaijan  
Title Free Trade Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Moldova 
and the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan  
Parties  Moldova and Azerbaijan  
Date of signature/entry into 
force  May 1995/April 1996  
Selected features  Agreement applies to goods and services  
Republic of Moldova – Belarus  
Title Free Trade Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Moldova 
and the Government of the Republic of Belarus  
Parties (current)  Moldova and Belarus  
Date of signature/entry into 
force June 1993/December 1994  
Selected features  Agreement applies to goods only  
Republic of Moldova – Kazakhstan  
Title Free Trade Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Moldova 
and the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan  
Parties  Moldova and Kazakhstan  
Date of signature/entry into 
force  May 1995/February 1996  
Selected features  Agreement applies to goods only  
Republic of Moldova – Georgia  
Title Free Trade Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Moldova 
and the Government of Georgia  
Parties  Moldova and Georgia  
Date of signature/entry into 
force  November 1997/April 2007  
Selected features  Agreement applies to goods only  
Republic of Moldova – Turkmenistan  
Title Free Trade Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Moldova 
and the Government of Turkmeni stan 
Parties  Moldova and Turkemenistan  
Date of signature/entry into 
force December 1993/March 1996  
Selected features  Agreement applies to goods only  
Moldova – Uzbekistan  
Title Free Trade Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Moldova 
and the Government of the Republic of Uzbekistan  
Parties  Moldova and Uzbekistan  
Date of signature/entry into 
force March 1995/August 1995  
Selected features  Agreement applies to goods only  
WTO document series WT/REG383/1/Rev.1  
GUUAM  
Title Agreement on the creation of a free trade area between GUUAM  
Parties  Georgia, Ukraine, Republic of Azerbaijan and Republic of Moldova  
Date of signature/entry into 
force  July 2002/April 2005  WT/TPR/G/42 8 • Republic of Moldova  
 
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  Agreement  Description  
Republic of Moldova – 
United Kingdom    
Title Strategic Partnership, Trade and Cooperation Agreement between the 
United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the Republic of 
Moldova  
Parties  Moldova and United Kingdom  
Date of signature/entry into 
force December 2020/January 2021  
Selected features  Agreement applies to goods and services; national treatment and market 
access for goods; trade remedies; TBT, standardization, metrology, 
accreditation and conformity assessment; SPS measures; customs and 
trade facilitation; establishment , trade in services and electronic commerce; 
current payments and movement of capital; public procurement; IPR; 
competition; trade -related energy; transparency; trade and sustainable 
development; dispute settlement  
Source:  Ministry of Economy . 
__________  
 
i 1. "GC – Statement on Immediate Action to Support the Multilateral Trading System in Preparation for a Successful MC12 " 
(WT/GC/W/841), latest document dated 28/04/2022;  
2. "GC – Joint Statement on Aggression by the Russian  Federation  against Ukraine with the suppo rt of Belarus " (WT/GC/244), latest 
document dated 15/03/2022;  
3. "DSB – Appellate body appointments " (WT/DSB/W/609/Rev.18),  latest document dated 18/02/2022;  
4. "Draft General Council Declaration on COVID ‑19 and Beyond: Trade and Health " – TRADE POLICY RESPONSE TO THE COVID ‑19 
PANDEMIC AND TO ENHANCE RESILIENCE AGAINST FUTURE PANDEMICS (WT/GC/W/823), 15/07/2021, latest document dated 18/02/2022;  
5. "Final draft Ministerial Declaration on Micro, Small and Medi um -Sized Enterprises (MSMEs) " (WT/MIN(21)/1), latest document dated 
18/02/2022;  
6. "Trade and Environmental Sustainability Structured Discussions (TESSD) – Ministerial statement on trade and environmental 
sustainability " (WT/MIN(21)/6/Rev.2), latest docum ent dated 14/12/2021;  
7. "FFSR - MINISTERIAL STATEMENT ON FOSSIL FUEL SUBSIDIES " (WT/MIN(21)/9), Document date 03/12/2021;  
8. "Declaration on the conclusion of negotiations on Services Domestic Regulation " (WT/L/1129), Document dated 02/12/2021;  
9. "General Council – Work programme on electronic commerce " (WT/GC/W/831/Rev.5), WT/MIN(21)/W/7 document dated 26/11/2021;  
10. "Ministerial Conference – Joint Ministerial Declaration on the advancement of gender equality and women's economic empowerment 
within trade – 12th WTO Ministerial Conference " (WT/MIN(21)/4), dated 10/11/2021;  
11. "General Council – Joint communication on systemic issues " (WT/GC/W/827), dated 27/07/2021;  
12. "General Council – Procedural Guidelines for WTO Councils and Committees addres sing trade concerns – Draft General Council 
Decision " (WT/GC/W/777/Rev.6), latest document dated 15/07/2021;  
13. "General Council – COVID‑19 and beyond: trade and health " (JOB/GC/251/Rev.1), dated 22/04/2021;  
14. "Committee on Budget, Finance and Administration – Procedural improvements for the Committee on Budget, - Finance and 
Administration " (WT/BFA/W/538/Rev.2), document dated 01/04/2021;  
15. "Joint statement on agriculture export prohibitions or restrictions re lating to the World Food Programme " (WT/L/1109), Document date 
21/01/2021;  
16. "General Council – Committee on Agriculture – Special Session – Proposal on agriculture export prohibitions or restrictions relating to 
the world food programme – Draft General Council decision " (TN/AG/46/Rev.3, WT/GC/W/810/Rev.3), Document date 18/12/2020;  
17. "Committee on Trade and Environment – Communication on trade and environmental sustainability " (JOB/TE/67), Document date 
12/11/2020;  
18. "General Council – Statement on COVID ‑19 and the multilateral trading system by Ministers responsible for the WTO " WT/GC/212),
 Document date 29/05/2020;  
19. "General Council – Statement on highlighting the importance of MSMES in the time of COVID ‑19" (WT/GC/215), Document d ate 
14/05/2020;  
20. "General Council – Statement in support of the rules -based multilateral trading system " (WT/GC/203), Document date 10/12/2019;  
21. "General Council – Unofficial room document – Comparative table of working methods in selected WTO bodies – Communication from 
the co -sponsors of the communication "procedural guidelines for WTO councils and committees addressing trade concerns" (RD/GC/12), d ated 
06/12/2019.